What is it?
Across Australia millions of people suffering from snoring and it affects not only the snorer themselves, but often partners and family members as well. And while snoring is not a particularly severe medical condition, it may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Cutting down on cigarettes, cutting out alcohol before bedtime, and weight loss are often cited as ways to alleviate snoring and can be effective for some people. Other will find they requires the help of a professional help to stop.
What causes snoring?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a result of a blockage in the airway disrupting normal breathing and often leads to snoring. It could be tonsils, a larger tongue, or even structures within the nasal passage that relax during sleep, causing the blockage. And, as air passes over it the vibrations caused produce the snoring sound.
Recent research shows that men, older people and those who are overweight are more likely to snore. Heavy alcohol consumption, smoking and using sedatives can all also increase the likelihood of snoring.
What treatments are available for sleep apnea?
If you’ve found the above lifestyles changes had no positive impact on your snoring, professional treatment may be the best way forward. Here at Beachside Dental we’re able to assess your risk for OSA and other sleep disorders, by performing an examination of your mouth and throat area to discover the likely cause of the blockage.
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