Snoring is a common problem that affects about 24% of Singaporeans, according to local studies. Snoring can be an indicator of a serious condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but can also be caused by other factors.
Snoring is often associated with a sleep disorder. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when airflow during sleep slows or stops. If left untreated, it can lead to a number of health complications. The symptoms include repeated pauses in breathing, which can cause oxygen levels in the blood to become low.
During a snoring episode, soft tissues in the mouth, nose, throat, and tongue vibrate, which causes air to move in and out of the airway. This can cause the snorer to become drowsy. Behavioral changes such as avoiding alcohol before bedtime, smoking cessation and weight loss can help improve snoring.
Medical conditions, such as nasal polyps, can also contribute to snoring. Nasal congestion, allergies, and hay fever are other factors. There is also the possibility of a deviated septum. A deviated septum is a narrower nostril, which can block airflow during sleep.
Some medications can encourage deeper sleep by relaxing the muscles in the throat and airway. They can also be used to control underlying conditions that are causing snoring.
Alcohol and sedatives can be helpful in relaxing the muscles in the throat, but they should not be taken right before bed. Smoking can also aggravate the condition, and it should be avoided if possible.
Although we do not know the exact causes of snoring, we do know that the condition can be serious. If you snore while sleeping, talk to your doctor or The Air Station soon for a sleep study and get the sleep apnea treatment with a CPAP machine based on your sleep condition.
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