Snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea
Managing snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea involves a combination of lifestyle changes, behavioral adjustments, and medical interventions. Adopting these strategies can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health.
Snoring
Snoring occurs when the airflow through the mouth and nose is partially obstructed during sleep, causing the tissues in the throat to vibrate and produce a sound. It can result from various factors, including nasal congestion, the position of the tongue, or the relaxation of throat muscles. While occasional snoring is often harmless, persistent snoring can disrupt sleep and affect the quality of rest for both the individual and their partner.
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea is a more severe condition characterised by repeated episodes of partial or complete blockage of the upper airway during sleep. This leads to frequent awakenings and a decrease in oxygen levels, causing fragmented sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness. OSA is often associated with loud snoring, choking or gasping sounds during sleep, and a higher risk of cardiovascular problems.
Management strategies
Lifestyle modifications
- Weight management – excess weight, particularly around the neck, can contribute to airway obstruction. Losing weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce or eliminate snoring and symptoms of OSA
- Sleep position – sleeping on your back can exacerbate snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea. Try sleeping on your side to keep the airway open. Special pillows or positional devices can assist with maintaining this position
Behavioural changes
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives – these substances relax the muscles of the throat, increasing the likelihood of airway collapse. They can worsen both snoring and sleep apnoea. Avoid consuming alcohol and sedatives in general but especially close to bedtime
- Quit smoking – smoking irritates the airway and can lead to inflammation and congestion. Quitting smoking can improve airway health and reduce snoring and sleep apnoea symptoms
Medical treatments
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) – for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea, CPAP therapy is a common treatment. It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that provides a continuous stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep
- Oral appliances – dental devices can be used to reposition the lower jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction. These are typically recommended for mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnoea or when CPAP is not tolerated
Surgical options
- Surgical interventions – in cases where lifestyle changes and other treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered. Procedures may involve removing excess tissue from the throat, correcting structural abnormalities, or reshaping the airway to improve airflow
Medical evaluation:
- Consult a specialist – if snoring or symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea are persistent and affecting your quality of life, consult a sleep specialist. They can conduct a sleep study to diagnose the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatments
References
- 4 signs you might have sleep apnea. John Hopkins Medicine, USA. Accessed 3 August 2024
- Is it snoring or sleep apnea. Sleep Apnea, USA. Accessed 3 August 2024
- Kids health information: obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Accessed 3 August 2024
- Obstructive sleep apnea. National Institutes of Health, USA. Accessed 3 August 2024
- The dangers of uncontrolled sleep apnea. John Hopkins Medicine. Accessed 3 August 2024
Last reviewed and updated: 3 August 2024
