Snoring
What
is Snoring?
Snoring is the sound that occurs during sleep
when flow of air is obstructed in the area where the
tongue and upper throat meet the soft palate and uvula.
Snoring noises occur when these structures vibrate against
each other during breathing.
It is estimated
that 45 percent of all adults snore occasionally, and
25 percent habitually snore. Snoring is more common
in males and people who are overweight.
Snoring is
obstructed breathing. In addition to disturbed sleep
patterns and sleep deprivation, other serious health
problems may result. Snoring may also be a symptom of
other medical conditions.
What
Causes Snoring?
Snoring may be caused by many factors, including:
- poor muscle tone
- excessively bulky throat
tissue
- long soft palate
- long uvula
- stuffed or blocked nasal
passages
- deformities of the nose
- deformities of the nasal
septum
Can
Snoring be Prevented?
Mild or occasional snoring may be helped by:
- a healthy lifestyle
that includes exercise and proper diet
- losing weight
- avoiding tranquilizers,
sleeping pills, and antihistamines before bedtime
- avoiding alcohol at
least four hours before bedtime
- avoiding heavy meals
at least three hours before bedtime
- establishing regular
sleeping patterns
- sleeping on your side
- tilting the head of
the bed up about four inches
Heavy or chronic snoring
may require medical care.
Treatment for Snoring:
Specific treatment will be determined by the
physician(s) based on:
- patient's age, overall
health, and medical history
- extent of the disorder
- expectations for the
course of the disorder
- patient's tolerance
for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- patient's opinion or
preference
Treatment may include a
nasal mask that provides continuous positive airway
pressure (CPAP), or surgery (UPPP, LAUP).