Sleep & Snoring
Through an integrative approach of testing and anatomic examination, we give you the tools to implement an effective plan that you feel comfortable with. Learn more below.
Sleep & Snoring
Importance of Sleep
Snoring can be the result of a serious health problem and can have serious health consequences. Snoring is the rough, irregular, or harsh sounds of breathing that is partially obstructed during sleep. Nearly half of all adults snore, at least occasionally. Occasional snoring can be brought on by unusual fatigue, by a cold or seasonal allergies, even by alcohol consumption.
Occasional snoring will pass when the reason behind it passes. But, for the 25 percent of people deemed habitual snorers, there may be underlying health problems or sleep disorders that are causing their problem.
Possible sleep problems:
- Anatomy: The structure of your mouth and nasal pathways has a lot to do with snoring. The position of the tongue in the mouth, the shape of the palate, and the width of the jaw all play a role. An elongated palate and uvula can also narrow the airway and cause excessive snoring.
- Nasal Problems: Anything that narrows the nasal passages increases the chances that someone will snore. These can include nasal polyps or a deviated septum. Allergies can also play a role, since they can lead to the swelling of nasal tissues and can also be a contributing factor in the formation of polyps.
- Sleep Apnea: Sometimes called obstructive sleep apnea, this serious problem results in the complete blockage of the airways for brief periods of time. People with sleep apnea will often wake briefly — sometimes hundreds of times a night — to gasp for air. This can cause fitful, restless sleep. The symptoms of sleep apnea can extend into the daytime hours and include sleepiness, morning headache, and sleepiness.
Take an Online Sleepiness Questionnaire
Sleepiness Score above a 10? You may need a sleep test!
Options for Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Nasal Procedures
Good nasal breathing is important for sleep health and reduction in snoring.
Home Sleep Testing
This helps us know the severity of the problem to help determine the best treatment plan.
Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy
DISE, which is an exam under anesthesia, can help us find the source of the collapse to better plan for surgical options.
Oral Appliances
We can discuss whether over-the-counter options versus moving toward custom appliances is right for you.
Positive airway pressure
Auto-PAP devices are much better than they used to be. We can initiate this process in our clinic.
Palate Surgery
If positive pressure isn't working, we can discuss throat procedures for better management.