Snoring I Sleep Apnea I Causes and Treatment Options

Almost half of American adults snore at least occasionally. However, snoring is not normal. It means your airway is obstructed and that can affect the quality of your sleep, as well as your waking hours.

Your airways may be obstructed for many reasons, including allergies, a cold or another infection that is causing mucus to build up in your airways. By treating these conditions, you can stop the snoring and sleep better.

Does Snoring Mean Sleep Apnea?

Snoring is also a common sign of sleep apnea, though not everyone who snores has the condition. If your snoring is loud and occurs often, talk to your physician to be tested for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea may have serious effects on your health, raising your risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Overnight sleep studies, called polysomnograms, can help diagnose your condition. During these tests, your breathing, brain activity, eye and muscle movements are monitored by an electroencephalogram (EEG) and video. These tests monitor your sleep patterns and can take place in a sleep laboratory or at home and occur during your normal sleeping hours.

Overview

Your airways may be obstructed for many reasons, including allergies, a cold or another infection that is causing mucus to build up in your airways. By treating these conditions, you can stop the snoring and sleep better.

Does Snoring Mean Sleep Apnea?

Snoring is also a common sign of sleep apnea, though not everyone who snores has the condition. If your snoring is loud and occurs often, talk to your physician to be tested for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea may have serious effects on your health, raising your risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Overnight sleep studies, called polysomnograms, can help diagnose your condition. During these tests, your breathing, brain activity, eye and muscle movements are monitored by an electroencephalogram (EEG) and video. These tests monitor your sleep patterns and can take place in a sleep laboratory or at home and occur during your normal sleeping hours.

IU Health Sleep Disorders physicians can help you rest easier with treatment options for snoring, including:

Lifestyle Changes

Some lifestyle changes may reduce snoring. Avoid alcohol or sleeping pills, which may cause your jaw muscles to relax too much during sleep. Extra weight can also cause your airways to become partially closed, so you may need to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight to prevent snoring.

Nose Sprays

Some decongestant nose sprays keep nasal passages relaxed and open during sleep. Decongestants reduce inflammation in the blood vessels in your nose so they do not become obstructed. Always speak with your physician before using a nose spray as they can cause side effects and even dependence.

Oral Appliances

Dentists can use molds of your mouth to create personalized tray appliances to wear while you sleep. These appliances keep your mouth and jaw in certain positions so that your breathing is not obstructed and snoring stops.

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Machine

PAP machines ensure you continue breathing throughout the night by applying constant air pressure to your airways. To use a PAP machine, you wear a mask over your nose and mouth that is connected by a tube to a machine that pumps air. Because you have to wear a PAP machine when you sleep, it is important that the mask and machine fits your needs. IU Health Home Care can help you find the mask that fits you best.

Referral to Specialists

If your snoring is caused by an obstruction in your airways, you may be referred to an Ear, Nose & Throat specialist. You may benefit from surgery for conditions that affect your airways, sinuses and ears.

Treatment for Snoring and Sleep Apnea