Issues like snoring and sleep apnea are ear, nose and throat (ENT) conditions that not only affect sleep quality but can also contribute to health risks over time. Understanding how snoring and sleep apnea and ENT conditions like it affect your rest can lead to better rest and improved health.
Snoring
Snoring occurs when airflow is partially blocked during sleep, causing throat tissues to vibrate. While occasional snoring may not be a cause for concern, chronic snoring can lead to fragmented sleep, daytime fatigue and irritability. It can also disrupt a partner’s rest, potentially causing irritation for both parties.
Tips for Reducing Snoring
For those experiencing persistent snoring, simple lifestyle adjustments may help:
- Adjust sleep position: Sleeping on your back can worsen snoring; try sleeping on your side instead.
- Use a humidifier: Dry air can irritate nasal passages and contribute to snoring.
- Avoid alcohol before bed: Alcohol relaxes throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
- Try nasal strips: These can help open nasal passages for better airflow.
- Consult an ENT specialist: If snoring is severe, a professional evaluation can identify structural issues such as a deviated septum or enlarged tonsils.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the throat muscles relax too much, leading to interrupted breathing which disrupts sleep.
Some signs of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring followed by silent pauses and gasping for air
- Waking up feeling unrested despite a full night’s sleep
- Daytime drowsiness, difficulty concentrating or morning headaches
According to research, more than 1 billion people worldwide experience sleep apnea, yet many cases go undiagnosed.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
Treatment for sleep apnea may include:
- CPAP therapy: CPAP is a machine that provides continuous airflow to keep airways open during sleep.
- Oral appliances: Oral appliances are custom-fitted devices that reposition the jaw to reduce airway obstruction.
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding sedatives can improve symptoms.
- Surgical interventions: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove obstructions like enlarged tonsils.
Consistently disrupted sleep due to ENT-related issues can have consequences that can extend past tiredness. This may include:
- Weakened immune function: Weakened immune function makes people more susceptible to illness.
- Increased stress and irritability.
Whether it’s chronic snoring, suspected sleep apnea or other ENT-related sleep concerns, seeking the right treatment can improve quality of sleep.
Schedule an evaluation with an ENT specialist to take the first step toward more restorative sleep. To learn more, contact San Diego ENT to schedule an appointment today.