Snoring is a very common problem which affects 45-50 % of normal
adults. Some snore occasionally and some are habitual snorers.
Loud snoring can be a significant social problem and has contributed
to the break-up of many a marriage. However, snoring can also
be a sign of a more serious medical problem called obstructive
sleep apnea syndrome ( OSAS). Patients with OSAS snore loudly
but also stop breathing in their sleep. When this happens,
the oxygen level in the body drops and this can trigger an
abnormal heart rhythm which can be fatal. In addition to being
a cause of sudden death, sleep apnea can also cause more insidious
chronic problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
People with sleep apnea are also more tired during the day
and are less productive at work and school and more prone to
getting into car accidents. One shouldn't laugh off snoring
as it can be a sign of OSAS.
Snoring
and sleep apnea are caused by a blockage of the breathing
passages in the back of the throat. ENT physicians are
experts in both the diagnosis and treatment of
snoring and sleep apnea. They are able to
|
