Snoring

Snoring refers to the harsh, hoarse sound that comes from the nose and throat, particularly during sleep at night. It results from the relaxation of the soft tissues in the back of the throat, which causes partial blockage in the airway. As air flows through, these tissues vibrate, producing the annoying sound. This condition is triggered by the movement of air through the relaxed throat tissues.

Snoring is one of the most widespread problems, becoming more common with age. Statistics show that habitual snoring affects around 40% of adult men and 24% of adult women. This difference is attributed to anatomical differences in the mouth and throat between men and women.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about snoring, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

  • Causes of Snoring
  • Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
  • How Are Sleep Disorders Diagnosed?
  • What Are the Complications of Sleep Disorders?
  • Treatment for Snoring

Causes of Snoring:

Snoring can be a source of discomfort and tension, both for you and your partner. While it’s primarily linked to breathing during sleep, it can also be a sign of a more serious condition. Common causes include:

Nasal Allergies:

 Caused by swollen nasal turbinates and constant nasal discharge.
 Treatment includes avoiding allergens and, in some cases, turbinate reduction.

Deviated Nasal Septum:

 When the septum deviates more to one side, it hinders airflow and leads to sleep apnea.
 Treatment typically involves septoplasty surgery.

Nasal Polyps:

These benign growths can form in one or both nasal cavities, blocking airflow and causing snoring.
 Treatment depends on their size and number and may include medication or surgery.

Soft Palate Laxity:

Age-related muscle relaxation in the soft palate can lead to snoring, treated surgically to remove the lax area.

Enlarged Tonsils:

 Inflamed or enlarged tonsils disrupt sleep and airflow, contributing to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

Throat or Laryngeal Growths:

 Benign tumors in the throat can cause snoring and are treated based on size and origin.

Jaw or Dental Deformities:

 Issues like a small lower jaw affect airflow and may require intervention by orthodontists or jaw surgeons.

Central Nervous System Disorders:

 Some neurological diseases affect breathing patterns during sleep, requiring evaluation by a neurologist.

Other contributing factors:

  • Pregnancy

  • Obesity

  • Neck or spinal tumors

  • Hypertension and heart disease

  • Lung conditions reducing oxygen levels

  • Weakness in throat mucosal lining

  • Chronic mouth breathing due to medical conditions


Symptoms of Sleep Disorders:

Depending on the root cause of snoring, various symptoms may occur, including:

  • Daytime drowsiness

  • Poor concentration

  • Insomnia

  • High blood pressure

  • Nighttime choking sensation

  • Dry mouth and throat

  • Night sweats

  • Chest pain

  • Morning headaches

Children may also experience snoring, with or without sleep apnea, possibly linked to hyperactivity or attention deficit disorder.

How Are Sleep Disorders Diagnosed?

Though snoring itself might seem harmless, it often points to an underlying health issue. Proper diagnosis is essential and may involve:

  • X-rays

  • CT scans

  • MRI of the airway

  • Endoscopic examination of the ear, nose, and throat

  • Blood tests

  • Sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor brain waves, blood oxygen, heart rate, breathing, and more

What Are the Complications of Sleep Disorders?

Beyond being annoying, snoring can result in:

  • Poor concentration

  • Irritability, frustration, or depression

  • Increased risk of nighttime acid reflux

  • Higher risk of accidents due to lack of sleep

  • Elevated risk of heart and lung disease

  • Persistent daytime fatigue, especially during work hours


Treatment for Snoring:

Treatment varies by cause and may include:

 

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Positional therapy

  • Using oral appliances to keep the tongue from blocking the airway

  • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) mask to keep airways open

  • Injections to stiffen the soft palate and reduce vibration

 

Medical and Surgical Treatments:

  • Oral appliances for tongue stabilization

  • CPAP masks for regulated airflow

  • Palate injections to strengthen tissue

 

Surgery for:

  • Deviated septum

  • Tongue base reduction

  • Soft palate lift

  • Tonsillectomy

  • Laryngeal tissue resection

  • Turbinate cauterization or polyp removal with endoscopy


To avoid the embarrassment and stress caused by snoring, consult an ENT specialist to accurately diagnose and treat the underlying cause before it leads to complications.