Snoring is the hoarse or loud sound produced when air flows past relaxed tissues in the throat, causing these tissues to vibrate during breathing. Almost everyone snores occasionally, but for some individuals, snoring can become a chronic problem. In certain cases, snoring may indicate an underlying health condition. Snoring can also disturb the sleep of partners or others sharing the same room.
Lifestyle adjustments, including losing excess weight, avoiding alcohol close to bedtime, and sleeping on the side, can significantly reduce snoring. In addition, medical devices and surgical procedures exist that may treat snoring, although they are not necessary or suitable for every patient.
Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the most appropriate approach. Managing snoring can prevent further health complications and improve overall quality of life.
What Are the Specific Symptoms of Snoring?
Snoring is frequently associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Not all individuals who snore have OSA, but snoring accompanied by the following symptoms should prompt a consultation with a medical professional:
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Headaches in the morning
- Sore throat upon waking
- Restless sleep
- Gasping or choking sensations during sleep
- High blood pressure
- Chest pain at night
- Snoring loud enough to disturb a partner’s sleep
Snoring in Children
Children with sleep apnea may present specific symptoms that affect daily functioning:
- Poor attention span
- Behavioral issues or reduced school performance
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children with Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Obstructive sleep apnea in children often includes loud snoring followed by silent periods when breathing slows or stops. These interruptions may cause the child to wake momentarily with a gasp or loud sigh.
Repeated episodes can fragment sleep, leading to light or insufficient sleep. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for preventing long-term developmental or behavioral effects.
What Are the Causes of Snoring?
Snoring may be caused by multiple factors, including the anatomical structure of the mouth and sinuses, alcohol consumption, allergies, colds, and body weight. During the transition from light to deep sleep, muscles in the soft palate, tongue, and throat relax. This relaxation can partially obstruct the airway and cause tissue vibration. Narrower airways increase airflow and tissue vibration, amplifying the intensity of snoring.
Factors That Can Affect the Airways and Cause Snoring
- Anatomy of the Mouth: A low, thick soft palate or an elongated uvula may restrict airflow, increasing snoring. Overweight individuals may have additional tissue at the back of the throat that narrows the airway.
- Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol relaxes throat muscles, reducing the natural defense against airway obstruction. Drinking alcohol before sleep can exacerbate snoring.
- Nasal Problems: Chronic nasal congestion or a deviated septum can interfere with normal airflow.
- Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sufficient sleep can relax the throat muscles further.
- Sleeping Position: Snoring is often louder and more frequent in individuals sleeping on their backs because gravity narrows the airway.
What Are the Complications Caused by Snoring?
Persistent snoring is more than an inconvenience. If associated with OSA, snoring can increase the risk of several health complications, including:
- Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Irritability, frustration, and anger
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke
- Behavioral issues in children, including aggression or learning difficulties
- Higher risk of motor vehicle accidents due to sleep deprivation
Snoring Can Cause
- Increased risk of traffic accidents or workplace incidents due to sleep deprivation
- Reduced concentration and cognitive performance
- Elevated blood pressure levels
- Shortness of breath during sleep episodes
How Is Snoring Diagnosed?
Physical Examination
The doctor reviews the patient’s signs, symptoms, and medical history. A detailed physical examination helps guide recommendations for treatment.
Imaging
The physician may request imaging tests such as X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These tests assess the structure of the airway to detect obstructions, including deviated septum or other anatomical issues.
Sleep Study
A sleep study (polysomnography) records brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing rate, sleep stages, and eye and leg movements. Sleep studies may sometimes be performed at home, but complex cases require overnight observation in a clinical setting. The study helps determine the severity of sleep disturbances and guides the treatment approach.
Treatment Methods for Snoring
Frequent snoring can increase the risk of high blood pressure or stroke, making early treatment crucial. Doctors may recommend lifestyle adjustments such as weight loss, alcohol avoidance, or sleeping position changes. If snoring results from structural or maxillofacial issues, surgical procedures may be suggested:
- Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Involves tightening and removing excess throat tissue under general anesthesia.
- Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA): Moves the upper and lower jaws forward to open the airway.
- Radiofrequency Tissue Ablation: Uses low-intensity radiofrequency signals to reduce tissue volume in the soft palate, tongue, or nasal passages.
- Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation: A device stimulates the nerve controlling tongue movement to prevent airway obstruction during sleep.
Can We Get Rid of Snoring with Rhinoseptoplasty?
Rhinoseptoplasty may be indicated when snoring is caused by structural nasal problems. The procedure corrects the septum and, if necessary, removes cartilage to open nasal passages. This surgery can improve breathing and reduce snoring.
Rhinoseptoplasty may also assist in treating sleep apnea caused by nasal obstruction. Patients whose snoring is related to other causes, such as asthma, allergies, or obesity, may not benefit from this surgery. A physician’s assessment determines suitability.
How Is Rhinoseptoplasty Performed?
Rhinoseptoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia. The septum is straightened via internal incisions, leaving no visible scars. When combined with rhinoplasty, additional steps correct nasal aesthetics according to patient goals. The procedure improves nasal function, airway patency, and may reduce snoring while being tailored to the individual’s facial anatomy.
When Is Rhinoseptoplasty Used as a Treatment for Snoring?
Rhinoseptoplasty may be considered in patients who:
- Have a deviated septum, causing breathing difficulties
- Snore excessively
- Are non-smokers
- Wish to improve both nasal appearance and function
Patients diagnosed with septal deviation causing snoring or breathing difficulties may benefit from rhinoseptoplasty as an effective treatment. Schedule a consultation and see how our procedures could help.
