Snoring is a problem that affects millions of people. Fortunately, there are treatments for this condition. Here are some of them: non-surgical approaches, surgical options, and lifestyle changes. Before choosing a treatment, it’s important to understand the symptoms and causes of snoring. Also, consider whether you can sleep on your side to improve airflow.
Treatment options
If you suffer from snoring, there are several treatment options available. One option is a sleep study. This involves an overnight sleep study to monitor breathing, brain activity, eye movements, and muscle movements. The test may be done at a sleep lab or at home. Other options include lifestyle changes and medications to relieve nasal congestion.
Treatment options for snoring can include a variety of devices. Some are air or foam-filled and can be either manual or electronic. Another treatment option is a head-of-bed device that elevates the head of the bed. Oral appliances, which can be self-fitted or fitted by a medical professional, can also be helpful.
Symptoms
Snoring is one of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea, a disorder that causes the sufferer to stop breathing while they sleep. It is a serious sleep disorder that needs immediate medical attention. Snoring symptoms often indicate an underlying condition, such as an enlarged tonsil. It can also be socially disruptive. Many snorers are overweight or have problems with their nervous system. The good news is that treatment is available.
There are several reasons why snoring occurs, including nasal stuffiness and nasal congestion. This can block the airway or cause vibration. Other factors, such as a nasal septum problem or poor muscle tone, can cause the throat to collapse, causing the snoring sound.
Causes
Snoring is a common problem, affecting nearly half of the population at some point. It is also a symptom of sleep apnea, a condition that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. If left untreated, snoring will worsen over time.
The causes of snoring vary from person to person, but they generally involve some sort of air restriction. Certain conditions like allergies and colds can exacerbate the condition. Other causes include an obstructed airway and mouth anatomy. Being overweight can also lead to snoring, as excess fat can constrict the airway.
Nonsurgical options
If you suffer from snoring and want to reduce its impact on your life, there are several nonsurgical options available. Lifestyle changes, specially designed oral appliances, and medications can all help you sleep more peacefully. A sleep study may also be recommended. These tests use sensors to monitor your breathing patterns and help your physician determine the best course of action.
Treatment for snoring varies from person to person. For those who snore because of OSA, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) may be prescribed. Other snoring treatments include nasal sprays, which can unblock congested nasal passages. If lifestyle changes fail, surgical treatment may be the last option. Nonsurgical procedures include chin and neck devices.
CPAP machine
Using a CPAP machine to treat snoring can be a helpful tool in the fight against sleep apnea. However, if you are a heavy snorer, you may want to consider other treatment options. You can try lifestyle changes to curb snoring. For example, losing weight can help you stop snoring. Likewise, avoiding alcohol or smoking around bedtime can be beneficial for reducing snoring. It is recommended that you seek treatment for sleep apnea while implementing changes to your lifestyle.
To ensure the best possible results, you should wear a CPAP face mask while using the machine. The mask should be snug but not too loose. You should also consider readjusting your sleeping position to prevent snoring. Generally, sleeping on your side is ideal for reducing the volume of air that flows through your mouth.
Oral appliance
The AASM published its initial position statement on oral appliances for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea in 1995. Over the past few years, the use of oral appliances has increased, particularly in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In 2006, the AASM published a systematic review paper supporting the use of oral appliances for snoring and OSA.
There are various types of oral appliances, and some can be bought over-the-counter. However, it is recommended that you visit a dental practitioner in order to get the best fit for your jaw. A custom-fitted appliance works much better and is less likely to cause side-effects than an appliance purchased off-the-shelf. In addition, you should schedule follow-up appointments with a dentist to make sure you are using the appliance correctly.
