Is there a connection between snoring and sleep apnea?

YES! Snoring is noise made when air rushes through a narrow airway during sleep. Most people who have sleep apnea also snore, and many people who snore have sleep apnea.

Snoring Evaluation:

The first and most important step is to determine whether or not the snoring is a sign of underlying sleep apnea. This is accomplished by performing a full examination of the upper airway (the nose, mouth, throat and vocal cords), and the neck. The examination usually involves a nasolaryngoscopy – using a very thin fiber through the nose and throat to look at the structures from inside. If there is any suspicion of sleep apnea based on the examination and answers to sleep questionnaires, then a sleep study should be done. In some cases radiological imaging such as CT scan or MRI scans may be necessary to better evaluate the source of snoring.

Snoring Treatment:

The treatment is determined by obtaining as much information as possible about the site of obstruction and the site of vibration in the upper airway. Treatment can be as simple as treating a chronic nasal obstruction with prescription nasal decongestant sprays. In many cases more sophisticated treatment is necessary and requires a customized approach depending upon the information obtained from the examination and other tests. Office based and hospital based surgery to the nose and throat are offered when indicated; as well as other non-surgical treatments when appropriate. These may include oral appliances, or CPAP if the snoring is associated with severe sleep apnea. In many cases snoring can be improved by lifestyle changes such as weight loss, and decreasing alcohol consumption at night. Snoring is also caused by acid reflux and treating the acid reflux can cure snoring.

Snoring and behavioral exercises. In some cases strengthening exercises of the tongue and palate can help reduce snoring. For more information, see our upcoming discussion by Christie Block (Speech Language Pathologist) on our blog.

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