Because snoring is so common, it is a condition that can be ignored. Right? Wrong. Even though most people take no action to solve their snoring problem, the fact remains that snoring is often linked to a very serious health condition known as Sleep Disordered Breathing and Sleep Apnea.
For some patients, snoring may be a result of something less serious, but sleep apnea cannot be ruled out unless proper testing (polysomnogram or home sleep study) and examination has been completed.
Why Do I Snore?
Each patient will present with a unique combination of factors that cause snoring, however, snoring often occurs because the soft tissues in the throat, along with the soft palate, vibrate due to airway restriction. The tissues involved include:
- Tongue
- Soft Palate
- Uvula
- Tonsils
- Adenoids
- Excessive Fatty Tissues Within the Throat
Dr. Sandford says “other factors such as sleeping position, a cold or other illness may cause you to snore, however, if you find that you are snoring on a regular basis, it is very unhealthy and dangerous and needs to be checked out.”
Dr. Sandford is trained to address and properly treat snoring. Remember, snoring affects not only you, but those around you, especially if your snoring is loud.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Snoring is a sign of possible sleep apnea. While not every patient who suffers from nightly snoring also suffers from sleep apnea, knowing whether you suffer from sleep apnea will make finding the snoring treatment you require much easier.
Those patients who snore as a result of sleep apnea often need treatment focused on treating sleep apnea, as opposed to simple snoring.
Snore No More!
If you have sleep apnea, simply masking the snoring with a snoring device is not enough. If you are unsure whether you have sleep apnea or if you’re looking to find the proper device to treat snoring, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandford to determine the best course of action.