You are most likely well aware of the snoring sound produced by strong vibrations during sleep. In fact, the snoring husband is a common subject of jokes in our society. However, snoring moves beyond a humorous topic and actually causes real distress for many couples by forcing one partner to sleep in another room to find peace. This leads to a significant strain on relationships and reduces feelings of intimacy.
But snoring also affects the snorer, which is about 45% of men and 35% of women. Snoring is the result of structures in the back of the mouth and throat collapsing during sleep and obstructing air flow. The bit of air that can get through becomes more forced, which results in the vibrations and the telltale sound of snoring.
Snoring sufferers can have a serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea or OSA. With OSA, the breathing slows and can even stop several times throughout a sleep cycle. You made have heard someone stop breathing for several seconds while sleeping and then take a large, noisy breath. This is one possible sign of OSA, which can be fully evaluated through a comprehensive sleep study. Beyond just not achieving a night of adequate rest, untreated OSA patients have a higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes.
If snoring is a concern for you or your partner, neither of you has to live with it. Fortunately, there are several treatment options such as stiffening the palate, nasal surgery, positive air pressure or CPAP machines, oral appliances, nasal inserts, and devices to help with proper positioning.
The first step is a full evaluation from a qualified ENT physician at Palm Beach Sinus Doctors. Even if you have tried treatments unsuccessfully in the past, contact us now to discover the latest treatment options to bring a good night’s sleep to your home.