I Snore — Does that Mean I Have Sleep Apnea?

Snoring is often the subject of lighthearted jokes, as well as a focus of complaint for many sleep-deprived partners. However, while snoring might seem like nothing more than an inconvenience, it is actually often a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can lead to significant health consequences if left untreated. How can you tell if your snoring is a cause for concern? Let’s discuss what snoring is, how it relates to OSA, and signs that you should visit a doctor about your snoring.

What Is Snoring?

Snoring is the sound that occurs when air moves past the tissues in your throat, causing them to vibrate. It can occur as a result of various circumstances. For example, allergies, colds, and consuming alcohol too close to bedtime can all cause minor congestion in the airway that leads to snoring. Some people find that their snoring is an occasional bother that can be avoided via a few simple lifestyle changes.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that is marked by pauses in breathing throughout the night. It occurs when obstructions in the airway become so severe that they prevent a person from taking in oxygen. These periods of not breathing, called apneas, can occur dozens or hundreds of times each night.

Loud, frequent snoring is one of the most common signs of OSA. The same tissues that vibrate when air moves past them are the ones that cause apneas.

Is It Harmless Snoring or OSA?

Your loud snoring may be a cause for concern if you are also experiencing other signs of symptoms of OSA. You should consider visiting a sleep physician if:

• You suffer from frequent daytime exhaustion
• You sometimes wake up gasping for air
• You often experience headaches and sore throats in the morning
• Your partner has expressed concern that you sometimes stop breathing during the night.
• Your work performance is declining because you are always tired.

Conquering Snoring and OSA

When you visit a doctor to discuss the possibility that you have OSA, they will likely arrange for you to undergo a sleep test, wherein your breathing will be monitored for a night. After you receive an official diagnosis, you can explore your treatment options. Many people find that a custom oral appliance from a dentist, which repositions the jaw to facilitate easier breathing, is a comfortable and convenient solution for both snoring and sleep apnea.

Is your snoring a harmless nuisance, or is it a sign of a bigger problem? If you aren’t sure, now is the time to seek diagnosis and treatment. 

About the Author

Dr. Stephen Dean is dentist and sleep expert in Covington. He is a graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina, and he maintains memberships in the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Disciplines, and other prestigious organizations. If you would like to speak to Dr. Dean about you can stop snoring and improve the quality of your nightly rest, contact our practice at 770-710-5268.