Snoring & Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Treatment

Snoring, often dismissed as a harmless nuisance, can be indicative of underlying health issues. This loud, harsh sound is produced when the tissues in our throats vibrate due to an obstruction in airflow in our upper aerodigestive tract. While occasional snoring is common, persistent snoring may signal a serious health condition – Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a condition where the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, can lead to pauses in breathing. They can last for seconds to minutes and may occur multiple times throughout the night, disturbing normal sleep patterns and chronically reducing oxygen levels in the blood.

This disruption can lead to hypoxia, bringing about other medical complications, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, headache, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, depression, and memory loss, among others.

Patients who snore should get themselves checked at Aglow ENT Centre to pinpoint the areas of soft tissue narrowing and blockage. Polysomnography (PSG), commonly referred to as a Sleep Study, will also be conducted to assess the existence and severity of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

Treatment options for snoring and OSA can be broadly categorised into medical and surgical interventions. These treatments include nasal sprays, dental splints, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, and various surgical procedures such as septoplasty, turbinoplasty, adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.

Given the unique nature of each patient’s condition, a personalised treatment plan is essential. Once the diagnosis and severity of the condition are determined, a tailored treatment plan will be prescribed to address the individual’s specific needs and conditions.