Treatments To Stop Snoring Now!
Even though a bad snorer may sound like a motorboat speeding
over the waves, the truth is that snoring is caused by
obstructed breathing, and obstruction can lead to serious
problems. Snoring disturbs sleeping patterns and deprives the
snorer of much needed rest. When snoring is severe, it can cause
serious, long-term health problems, including obstructive sleep
apnea not to mention disturbing the peace and quiet in the
bedroom. Simple changes, such as losing weight or sleeping on
your side, can help as well as more drastic measures such as
surgery. The following is a list of some of the best treatments
to help with snoring problems.
Surgery is often used for treating snoring caused by obstructive
sleep apnea. Different types of TAP (Thermal Ablation
Palatoplasty) include bipolar cautery, laser, and
radiofrequency.
* Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) tightens flabby tissues in
the throat and palate, and widens air passages.
* Laser Assisted Uvula Palatoplasty (LAUP) treats snoring and
mild obstructive sleep apnea by removing the obstruction in the
airway. A laser is used to vaporize the uvula and a specified
portion of the palate. Removing excess tissue enlarges your
airway and reduces vibration.
* Radiofrequency-assisted uvulopalatoplasty or RAUP. Instead of
a laser, thermal energy is used under local anesthesia to scar
and shrink the soft tissue in the back of the throat
* Genioglossus and hyod advancement is a surgical procedure that
prevents collapse of the lower throat and pulls the tongue
muscles forward, thereby opening the obstructed airway.
* Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy treats snoring caused by
problems with tonsils and adenoids. Often found in children.
If surgery is too risky or unwanted here are some non surgical
ways to treat snoring:
* Use a nasal mask that delivers air pressure into the throat
called a continuous positive airway pressure or "CPAP". The mask
is attached to a small pump that forces air through your airway
to keep it from collapsing. CPAP eliminates snoring but many
people find it cumbersome and uncomfortable.
* Change your sleep posture. Snoring is especially loud when you
sleep on your back. Various pillows and strap-on devices will
force you to sleep in the right position.
* Throat sprays coat the soft tissues of the throat with
lubricating oils, allowing the air to move more freely and
lessening the noisy vibration.
* Open up nasal passages with the following items including
adhesive strips which hold open the airways of your nose,
plastic devices to hold open your nostrils, and nasal sprays
which reduce congestion or the swelling of nasal tissues. These
methods will enhance your breathing.
* Mouthpiece devices are available often custom-fitted by your
dentist which pulls the lower jaw and tongue forward, making
more room at the back of the throat.
Oftentimes snoring can be helped with lifestyle changes but if
you have concerns about snoring you should contact your doctor
or dentist for a complete evaluation to discuss the snoring
treatments available and to decide which might be the best help
to stop your snoring now.