Snoring can represent a health problem if it is associated with sleep-disordered breathing including sleep apnea.
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
In the case of sleep-disordered breathing, snoring may be a sign of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This can result in symptoms such as:
- daytime fatigue
- the feeling of non-restorative sleep
- headache
- poor mental concentration
- the need to take a nap during the day
What Are Some of the Causes of Snoring?
First, there are nasal causes of snoring. These include nasal obstruction such as a deviated nasal septum, enlarged nasal turbinates, or nasal polyps. The second category of conditions is a partial obstruction in the pharynx or throat. These include enlarged tonsils, excessive soft palatal tissue, as well as a tongue position that partially occludes the throat while sleeping.
Finally there are systemic causes of that include being overweight, drinking or eating close to bedtime, and excessive fatigue and tiredness.
What Tests Can Be Done to Determine the Cause of Sleep Apnea?
A full upper airway examination can help determine the causes of snoring for particular individual. If sleep-disordered breathing is suspected, a sleep study may help in determining the severity of the problem. Depending on the results of the physical examination, imaging studies like a CT scan may be ordered by Dr. Ashley Sikand. For non-surgical causes, a referral to a sleep specialist may be done to discuss other treatment options.
See What Our Patients Have To Say!
I can't say enough about Dr. Sikand and his staff. Breathing through both nostrils had always been very difficult. When I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and had to start using a CPAP machine I met with Dr. Sikand and discovered I had a deviated septum. Dr. Sikand reviewed all my options and made specific recommendations to correct. The recovery took about a week and I just had my 6 week follow up. I wish I had done this 40 years ago. I would highly recommend Dr Sikand and his staff.
Request a Consultation Today
To learn more about our Sleep Apnea testing and treatment options in the Las Vegas area, call us at (702) 792-6700 to request a consultation. At Nevada Sinus Relief, we provide the high-quality care you deserve.
