Snoring and sleep apnea

Snoring is the raspy sound made when the walls of the throat vibrate during sleep because normal airflow is obstructed. A number of factors can cause snoring:

• Partially blocked nasal passages from sinus infection, cold or flu, allergies, smoking, polyps, or a deviated septum.
• Enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
• Extra weight around the neck and throat.
• Alcohol, sleeping pills, or simply the aging process which reduces muscle tone in the throat and tongue.
• An elongated soft palate or uvula; soft tissues at the back of the throat.

You may not think snoring is a health concern. But it means you and your partner are not getting the quality of rest you need.

During sleep apnea you actually stop breathing (or experience very shallow breath) during sleep. These abnormal pauses can last a few seconds or minutes, and occur 30 or more times per hour. The sufferer is rarely aware that it is happening. Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is triggered by the same obstructions that cause snoring. The body’s lack of respiratory effort causes central sleep apnea (CSA). Complex sleep apnea is a combination of the two, and the sufferer may also snore.

Sleep apnea is serious! It restricts airflow to the brain, heart, and other organs, and causes unusual strain on the lungs each time your body jerks back to a normal breath. The constant sleep interruptions result in daytime fatigue, vision and memory problems leading to poor school and work performance, driving accidents, and depression.

CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines and surgery are a last resort. Instead, Dr. Peter Cha and Dr. Danny Dinh will begin with suggestions on lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation or elevation of the head of your bed, or medical treatment of nasal problems.

You may benefit from a custom-fitted oral appliance. This mouthpiece comfortably holds your jaw slightly forward as you relax into sleep, for unobstructed breathing.

You don’t have to endure snoring or sleep apnea. The compassionate staff at the Family Smile Center will help you understand your options for a peaceful night’s sleep!