Does your significant other often complain about your loud snoring? Why do we snore in the first place? Understanding the cause of your issue can be the first step towards treatment. Remember, what may seem like a minor nuisance may actually be a symptom of a serious sleep disorder.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snoring
Question: What causes a patient to snore?
Answer: There are a variety of factors that can lead to constant snoring. First, the soft tissues in the throat and the back of the mouth can collapse and block airflow. This overly relaxed tissue may result from the consumption of alcohol or other substances prior to bed. Obesity, congestion, and sinus problems are also common causes.
Question: Can our daily habits lead to chronic snoring?
Answer: Yes. If you drink alcoholic beverages or take medications that cause muscles in the throat to relax, you can be exacerbating your sleeping issues.
Question: Can this be a sign of a serious issue?
Answer: Yes. In some cases, this can be a warning sign of obstructive sleep apnea. This disorder develops when airflow is completely blocked during sleep, causing the patient to stop breathing for brief periods. While the patients may not have any memory of this, they can be woken up hundreds of times a night. The result is daytime exhaustion and an increased risk of heart attack, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Question: What are my treatment options?
Answer: We offer two non-surgical treatment options. You may wear an oral appliance, which looks like a night guard, to keep the air passages open at night. We may also prescribe a CPAP machine, which force air through the nose and mouth so the patient keeps breathing.
ABOUT YOUR LIVONIA MI DENTIST:
James R. Stewart, Jr, DDS, PC and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. If you think you or a loved one is dealing with a sleep disorder, call our office today at (734) 425-4400, to schedule an appointment. At Dental sleep Medicine of Michigan, we are committed to forming trusting relationships with our patients so we can work together to achieve sound treatment and a future full of restful nights.
