Causes and risk factors:
Obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most common and serious cause of snoring. Frequent alcohol consumption and smoking at bedtime is the other contributing factor. Diseases of the airway passages like deviated nasal septum or malpositioning of the jaw as a result of tension in muscles can also lead to snoring.
Clinical presentations:
Loud and unpleasant sound is produced during sleep. It is followed by some period of silence. Snoring can cause not only disturbance of sleep to the patient but the other members in the room also. Along with unrefreshing sleep, drowsiness in the morning and irritability are the other associated symptoms. Decreased libido and poor concentration or chest pain at night are the other symptoms which the patient can complain of.
Diagnosis and investigations:
A detail history and symptoms narrated by the patient can aid for confirming the diagnosis. The doctor can suggest some investigations like X-ray of the head, neck and chest or various imaging like CT scan or MRI of the chest to find out the underlying cause. The patient can be advised of undergoing a polysomnography test.
Treatment:
Changes in the lifestyle are the main step to be implemented. It comprises of weight loss and avoidance of smoking and alcohol at bedtimes. Various nasal spray, nasal clips or lubricating sprays are available at the counter which is help in avoiding snoring. Mandibular advancement splints are also available. Surgical intervention like uvulopalatopharyngoplastya can also be done
Recent update:
According to researches carried out by the researchers of University of Michigan Health System mothers who snored three or more nights a week had a higher risk of poor delivery outcomes.
