The Problem of Snoring

venturist | Apr 1, 2010 |

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Snoring or Stertor is the noise created from vibrations created by air that is forced through the small opening in the back of the throat. However, snoring can affect the quality and quantity of sleep, which can lead to daytime fatigue, and increased health problems. Snoring is so common that most of the people tend to ignore the snoring problems, and do not realize that snoring can be an indication of more serious underlying health condition. Alcohol and some medications tend to relax the muscles during sleep, and as the muscles of tongue, palate, pharynx and neck relax, airway becomes smaller and tissues vibrate more.

People who snore are usually overweight and middle aged, and snoring can be an indication of a more serious underlying health problem. Snoring can be a symptom of sleep apnea which is a potentially life-threatening condition. If the person snores only while sleeping on the back, the snoring is usually mild, and few lifestyle changes and improved food habits can be cure the problem. The patient is also asked about daytime symptoms of sleepiness, sleep hygiene, sleep pattern, frequency of awakening at night, daytime napping and so on.

With blocked airways, the inhalation becomes difficult, and it creates a vacuum in the throat causing snoring. With the age, the throat becomes narrower, and muscle tone in the throat decreases. The problem of snoring is usually a problem for a roommate or bed partner, hence successful treatment should include achieving good night's sleep for them as well. If you snore mildly while sleeping on your back, try sleeping on your side, as this might cure the snoring altogether.

Mild snoring not related to sleep apnea can be cured with the help of home remedies, and can result in improved quality of life. However, in order to be effective, these devices must be worn every night, can cause excessive salivation, can cause or exacerbate temporomandibular joint problems and can be expensive. Singing increases the muscle control in soft palate and throat, and can help reduce snoring. If nothing seems to be working to help you reduce snoring, you will have to consult and otolaryngologist, and if you want to try the dental appliance, you will have to see the dentist specializing in these devices.

Continuous positive airway pressure and dental appliances are alternative options that can help reduce or eliminate snoring. Oral devices, dental appliances and lower jaw positioners can be used to reduce snoring, and a dentist specializing in sleep disorder can fit one of these devices for you. Palatal implantation is a new surgical procedure that has shown promising results where small plastic implants are inserted into the soft palate using a small instrument.