Posts Tagged ‘snoring treatment’

Snoring and Sleep Disorders Explained

Studies have shown that approximately 40% of adults living in the U.S. snoring. Because snoring is so common that many people do not think twice about it or realize that it might be a sign of something much more serious. Snoring can really be a precursor to some sleep disorders can be very serious.

One of the most common but potentially serious sleep disorders often characterized by snoring is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person regularly stops breathing during sleep, at intervals of ten seconds or more. As the person starts breathing again this causes a lack of oxygen reaching the body which can lead to heart problems and potential mild brain damage. Some signs other than sudden loud snoring include morning headaches, feeling tired during the day, insomnia, and the need for frequent naps.

Most people with sleep apnea have obstructive sleep apnea. This means that sleep apnea is caused by something blocking the airway. This is usually caused by soft tissue in the throat which falls shut for periods of time causes the person to stop breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by jaw and throat anatomy, or can be caused by obesity. Sleep apnea can cause many serious heart problems, so if you suspect you may have sleep apnea you should see your doctor immediately.

There are several different treatment options when it comes to obstructive sleep apnea. If you have a mild case of sleep apnea (you will need special sleep tests to determine the severity of your situation) you may only need to lose weight or try sleeping on your side. However, if your doctor has determined that sleep apnea is a more serious nature may need a CPAP. CPAP continuous positive pressure means is a device that forces the airway remains open. Another possibility is a Bi-PAP, which supplies air to two different pressures for exhalation and inhalation.

Another possibility is surgery. The goal of surgery is to increase the size of the upper air passage to prevent closure during sleep. However, due to the anatomy of this type of surgery is not always possible or entirely effective.

If you think you may have sleep apnea see your doctor and can help you determine the right course of action for you.