Why do we snore?
Snoring is the sound produced when soft tissues of the upper airway vibrate with airflow during sleep. Nasal obstruction (deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, polyps), enlarged adenoids, a lax soft palate and uvula, large tonsils, excess weight and sleeping position are the main contributing factors. Alcohol and certain medications increase muscle relaxation and can worsen snoring.
What is sleep apnea and why does it matter?
Simple snoring alone is usually harmless; the picture changes when pauses in breathing accompany it. In obstructive sleep apnea, breathing stops repeatedly during sleep, lowering blood oxygen levels overnight and constantly fragmenting sleep. Untreated sleep apnea is associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches and poor concentration — and, in the long term, with an increased risk of hypertension, heart rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease.
Warning signs
Breathing pauses noticed by a partner, waking up gasping, frequent night-time urination, waking unrefreshed, daytime drowsiness and morning headaches all suggest sleep apnea. People with these complaints should be evaluated; a sleep study (polysomnography) is used to confirm the diagnosis where needed.
Treatment options
Treatment is individualized and directed at the cause. Lifestyle measures — weight loss, side sleeping, avoiding alcohol — are fundamental for every patient. Problems causing nasal obstruction (deviation, enlarged turbinates, polyps) can be corrected surgically; enlarged adenoids and tonsils are removed in suitable cases. In moderate-to-severe sleep apnea, positive airway pressure devices worn during sleep (PAP therapy) are the gold standard; in selected cases, surgery on the soft palate and tongue base may also be considered. The right option is decided together after examination and the necessary tests.
This article is for general information purposes only; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.