Why Do People Snore?
Snoring happens when air cannot flow freely through the nose and throat during sleep.
Common causes include:
Nasal blockage or sinus problems
Deviated nasal septum
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
Tongue, palate or larynx issues
Obesity
Alcohol or smoking
When Should You Worry About Snoring?
Snoring may be dangerous if it is associated with:
Very loud, habitual snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Choking or gasping at night
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Poor concentration or memory issues
High blood pressure or heart problems
These symptoms may suggest Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
Why Is Sleep Apnea Serious?
Untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of:
High blood pressure
Heart disease and stroke
Diabetes
Daytime fatigue and accidents
Poor quality of life
How Can an ENT Specialist Help?
An ENT evaluation may include:
Nose, throat, and airway examination
Sleep history
Sleep study
Identification of blockage or structural problems and treatment of the same.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity:
Weight reduction
Avoiding alcohol and smoking
Nasal sprays or allergy treatment
Positional therapy
CPAP therapy (for sleep apnea)
Surgery for nasal, tonsillar, or airway obstruction by an ENT specialist.
