Discover the underlying cause and severity of your snoring.

Several factors can contribute to snoring, including:

• Anatomy of the Airway: A narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, or a thick soft palate can obstruct airflow.
• Nasal Congestion: Allergies, sinus infections, or a deviated septum can make breathing through the nose difficult.
• Obesity: Excess weight around the neck can put pressure on the airway.
• Sleeping Position: Sleeping on the back may cause the tongue to fall backward, partially blocking the airway.
• Alcohol and Sedatives: These substances relax throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction.
• Sleep Apnea: Snoring can indicate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.

Occasional snoring may not require treatment, but medical evaluation is recommended if snoring is accompanied by:

• Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
• Pauses in breathing
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches or dry mouth
• Difficulty concentrating or mood changes

When it comes to diagnosing and evaluating snoring, a sleep specialist is your best ally. They may recommend a home sleep apnea test (HSAT) or an in-lab sleep study (polysomnogram) to assess breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep disruptions. A physical examination by a specialist can also help identify anatomical causes of snoring.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of snoring. Options may include:

Lifestyle Changes

• Weight Management: Losing excess weight can reduce airway obstruction.
• Positional Therapy: Sleeping on the side instead of the back can minimize airway blockage.
• Nasal Decongestion: Treating allergies or using nasal strips may improve airflow.
• Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives: Reducing intake before bedtime can prevent excessive muscle relaxation.

Medical and Surgical Treatments

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of air to keep the airway open and is, often used for obstructive sleep apnea.
• Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): Provides different pressure settings for inhalation and exhalation, offering an alternative for those who struggle with CPAP.
• Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP): Adjusts air pressure throughout the night based on breathing needs.
• Oral Appliances: Custom-fitted devices reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
• Surgical Options: Procedures such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), radiofrequency ablation, or nasal surgery may be considered for structural issues.