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Snoring is most often a result of vibrations in the back of the throat and surrounding areas during sleep caused by a partially blocked air passage.
Not only is it disruptive to the bed partner’s sleep often causing fatigue and relationship strains for both individuals, it may be a sign of a life-threading condition called sleep apnea. This medical condition results when the airway passage in the back of the throat collapses closing off the air supply to the body and the brain during sleep. Often this individual stops breathing as much as 100 times per hour! As a result of the air blocks, the person often “awakes” unknowingly sometimes resulting in daytime fatigue, depression-like symptoms, high blood pressure, headaches and sexual dysfunctions. Apnea can be life threatening especially in the earlier adult decades.
It is important to first find whether your spouse is snoring or has apnea. This will involve assessment by your physician often occupying the need for a sleep test confirming the diagnosis.
If your spouse is indeed ‘only snoring’ and does not have apnea some of the common treatment recommended may include:
- Weight loss
- Positional devices to keep off your back
- Avoidance of alcohol before bedtime
- Professional oral devices by trained dentists
- ENT evaluations for various surgical procedures
If the diagnosis includes apnea, the most common treatment option recommended is a bed-side air pressure breathing device (CPAP). Professional oral devices made by trained dentists are also now the standard of care for mild to moderate apnea or for those who cannot tolerate the CPAP devices. Severity of one’s condition and symptoms often reflect which option is best for the individual.
There is no doubt that treating an individual’s snoring often restores harmony in a couple’s relationship, and may even save a life!
Do you have a question you would like to ask Dr. Sosenko? Just comment below, and watch Dr.’s blog for her response.
Dr. Sosenko is a Diplomate of the D.ABDSM and the founder of Dental Sleep Medicine of Illinois. She offers snoring and apnea patient’s relief through professional oral device therapy. Visit www.TiredOfSnoring.com for more information.