Snoring

What is snoring?

Snoring is a common issue in children and adults that occurs when there is a disturbance in the airflow when you breathe at night. The natural way to breathe at night is through the nose. However, structural changes to the upper airway can narrow the path of air in the back of the throat forcing an individual to open the mouth to breathe. Mouth breathing then causes a vibration of soft tissue resulting in loud sounds, breathing problems, and poor sleep quality.

Snoring is strongly linked to sleep disordered breathing conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea and upper airway resistance syndrome. As such, it is recommended that people who snore get evaluated to rule out these conditions.

The experienced team at Breathe Airway assesses children, teenagers, and adults to find the root cause of snoring. They offer a thorough sleep assessment and evaluation to find the right treatment for you.

What are the risk factors for snoring? 

Factors that increase your risk of snoring include:

• Genetics
• Allergies
• Excess body weight
• Mouth or nasal abnormalities 
• Alcohol consumption
• Narrow airway
• Poor sleep positioning
• Sleep deprivation
• Sleep apnea
• Being male

How does my provider diagnose the cause of snoring?

To find the source of snoring and effectively treat your condition, the experts at Breathe Airway review your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle habits. They will also complete a thorough physical exam. You might undergo a home sleep study or imaging procedures.

How can I reduce snoring?

To treat the underlying cause of snoring, the Breathe Airway team may recommend:

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, sleeping on your side, using nasal strips, or treating nasal congestion can help. Limiting alcohol, tobacco, and sedatives can also improve snoringOral appliances

Wearing custom-fitted oral appliances when you sleep repositions your jaw, widens your airway, improves breathing, and reduces snoring. These appliances also help you get a better night’s sleep.

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device

A CPAP can treat snoring and sleep apnea. It is a machine attached to a mask that you wear over your mouth and nose while you sleep. It keeps your airway open and reduces snoring and other symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. 

CO2 laser treatment

CO2 laser treatment uses cutting-edge laser technology to alter the tissues responsible for snoring and a narrow airway. 

Myofunctional therapy

Myofunctional therapy is like physical therapy, but it improves the structure and function of tissues in your mouth, jaw, lips, and face.

To get relief from snoring or its underlying cause, call the Breathe Airway office or schedule an appointment online today.