Sleep apnea and snoring

Snoring

Snoring is one of the problems that you can find in every house. Almost everyone snores, but for some, it can be minor; it could be a chronic problem for others. Snoring is grunting or making a snorting noise that is usually a problem for the partner. It is noisy, harsh breathing that occurs when air flows past the relaxed tissues, narrows the airway and causes the tissue to vibrate while you sleep.

Tests

Diagnosis would be made so that the proper treatment according to the seriousness of the problem can be given. Doctors may go for physical tests and diagnostic tests such as CT scans, X-rays or MRIs. Doctors may do the in-depth study of sleep for which you may need to stay at a hospital known as a sleep study. It records your respiratory rate, heart rate, oxygen levels in your blood and your leg movements.

People with mild snoring need not go for such tests as their lifestyle will eventually improve the snoring problem.

Treatment

Mouthpieces or masks are the temporary solutions, but surgeries are permanent ones but require regular follow up.

Symptoms

Snoring is a common phenomenon but needs to be taken seriously when specific other symptoms are observed, leading to a sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).