SNORING

What is snoring?

Snoring is noisy breathing through the mouth and nose during sleep. This is caused by partial upper airway obstruction, and occurs during sleep when the muscles of the upper airway relax and partially obstruct. Up to 30% of the adult population snore regularly.

Factors that cause snoring

  • Age – (Loss of muscle tone).
  • Obesity
  • Sleeping on your back
  • Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
  • Alcohol – drinking relaxes the muscles
  • Use of certain drugs (e.g. sleeping tablets)

Snoring as a symptom of sleep apnoea

If you snore loudly with occasional pauses in breathing, and frequently wake up during the night, you may have obstructive sleep apnoea. You can complete the Epworth Sleepiness Scale to asses if you have a sleep disorder.

Treatment options

Sleep disorders are treatable.  Your doctor can evaluate your sleep problems with a sleep study. Options are:

There are several lifestyle changes that can be made to assist in the treatment of snoring. However, except in the mildest cases, additional measures are usually needed.

Avoid alcohol and any sedating medications.

If you are overweight, weight loss of even 3-5kg, may reduce the level of snoring.   Most snorers are loudest while sleeping on their backs, therefore positioning strategies or raising the head with an additional pillow may help reduce snoring.

These devices are specially designed appliances worn in the mouth during sleep, and most effectively used in mild to moderate apnoea. They maintain an opened, unobstructed airway to alleviate snoring. There are two basic types of oral appliances.

Continuous Positive Airways Pressure (CPAP) is the most common and effective treatment for patients with persistent snoring and sleep apnoea. It prevents airway collapse during use. The patient wears a mask over the nose and/or mouth during sleep, and air is blown in through the mask into the upper airway. The air splints the upper airway and prevent the airway from collapsing during sleep.

Surgical procedures have a relatively low success rate in comparison to other treatment options, and may be invasive and painful procedures

For booking or enquires call Sleep Services Australia on 1300 867 533 or email bookings@sleepservices.com.au