What Is Snoring?
Snoring is the sound that occurs when air flows past relaxed tissue in your throat, causing the tissue to vibrate. Occasional snoring is not a cause for concern, but when it happens consistently, it may be indicative of a more serious health problem like sleep apnea.
If your snoring is affecting your health, Charleston ENT & Allergy can provide solutions to allow you to sleep peacefully throughout the night.
How Common Is This Condition?
At least 45% of American adults snore occasionally, and 25% are habitual snorers.
What Causes Snoring?
- Sleep apnea
- A narrow airway
- Enlarged tonsils
- Consuming alcohol before bed
- Nasal issues, such as a deviated septum
- Sleeping on your back
When Should I See a Doctor?
If you snore loudly and then experience periods of silence, you should visit an ENT, as this is a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, if your child snores, they should visit a doctor. Childhood snoring may be a sign of enlarged tonsils.
How Do I Stop Snoring?
There are several lifestyle modifications that may stop or reduce your snoring. These include sleeping on your side, treating allergies, avoiding alcohol before bedtime and losing weight.
What Treatments Are Available?
If our otolaryngologist determines your snoring is the result of sleep apnea, they may suggest a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. This machine delivers air pressure through a mask while sleeping, which keeps your upper airway passages open to prevent sleep apnea and snoring.
Surgical procedures are another option. Our provider will work with you to determine if this may be a good option for you and tell you what to expect during your procedure and any necessary aftercare.
Procedures for snoring include:
- Pillar Procedure. Polyester filament is injected into the soft palate to stiffen it and reduce snoring.
- Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). Excess throat tissue is surgically removed to enlarge the airway. This may include the uvula, soft palate, tonsils, adenoids and/or pharynx.
- Laser Surgery. Lasers are used to remove the uvula and excess tissue from the soft palate.
- Somnoplasty. Also known as radiofrequency tissue ablation, this procedure uses radio signals to shrink the tissue of the soft palate.
Our Team Is Here For You
Snoring can make it difficult for you to get a good night’s sleep. Charleston ENT & Allergy can create a customized treatment plan for alleviating this discomfort. We’ll be there as you start treatment and continue to provide ongoing support through your sleep care journey.
Call Charleston ENT & Allergy at (843) 766-7103 for more information or to schedule an appointment.