The view sleep apnea
In this article we try & offer just a brief background to both snoring and sleep apnea, some of the causes and possible treatments that might be available & suggested by a medical practitioner.
What is it ? Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder causing interruptions in the regular breathing process of the human body. Snoring and Sleep Apnea are interrelated. Around 45 percent of the population suffers with snoring. The noise of snoring is due to the obstruction in the passage of air. Reasons for snoring are:
Week muscles of tongue and throat
Large tonsils and adenoid
Stuffy nose
Blockages in the nasal airways
Soft or long uvula
Snoring results in several health disorders and may lead to Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Examining the nose, throat, mouth and neck can effectively treat snoring. Various remedial facilities are available for snoring.
Both adults and children are victims of this disorder, which can be either Attention Deficit Syndrome or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome. When sleeping, people are not quite conscious about the nature of their sleep and the levels of snoring or for that matter sleep apnea that may be taking place.. Hence most of them are unaware of the disorders.
Diagnosis: Treatment for snoring is done only after thorough evaluation of the patient. Polysomnography is one of the diagnostic methods followed. Clinical examination of the patient is done, by taking EEG, ECG, chest movement, diaphragm movement etc.
Treatments for snoring: Uvulapalatopharyngoplasty- it removes the uvula with excessive tissues in the throat. By this treatment, the air passage is opened for proper breathing. This is also applied for the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Genioglossus and Hyoid Advancement- by this surgical treatment the tongue is drawn forward to provide enough space for proper breathing.
Thermal Ablationpalatoplasty- is a treatment for correcting snoring and Sleep Apnea.
Laser Assisted Uvulapalatoplasty- the Uvula is shortened thereby reducing obstructions in the air passage. It is performed under local anesthesia. Octolaryngologists in sleep clinics may be of help in diagnosing the problem and deciding on the proper methods of treatment.
Surgery- certain surgeries can also be undertaken for treating Sleep Apnea Snoring. It removes the obstructions in the pathway of air permanently. However in most instances surgery is considered the last option.
Dental Appliances- some dental appliances help to correct snoring troubles through temporary adjustment of the physical structure of the mouth.
Some Helpful Steps to take …….. A Healthy life style together with some simple steps to be followed can make a measurable difference to both snoring and sleep apnea
Practice regular sleeping
Sleep lying on your side- this is the best position to be in while sleeping . This will help to reduce the obstructions on the throat while breathing.
Raise the head a little while sleeping-the head should be kept in an elevated position by increasing the height of the bed instead of using pillows.
Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills etc
Regular exercise
Avoid fatty milk or milk products before sleep
If overweight ? look to lose a few pounds
Snoring, though termed as a disturbance for others in sleep, is a serious health problem for the person who snores. There can be different reasons for snoring. Finding the exact cause and providing proper treatment & prevention are necessary to ensure a healthy life. Sleep Apnea related snoring or Sleep Apnea Snoring itself can certainly be termed a life threatening condition if not kept in check.
The Good news ………. But the good news is that there are many highly successful methods of treatment.
As with any medical condition it is vital to seek the advice of qualified professionals prior to seeking treatment
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Toby Russell owns & operates http://www.sleepapneainfoguide.com an information-based website aiming to offer basic help and information to sufferers of snoring and sleep apnea. |
