Snoring can be an issue for many people. Now, recent studies have shown that people who snore a lot are more susceptible to heart attacks, brain stroke and sudden cardiac arrest, than others. According to health experts, people who snore severely can even die in their sleep. Dr GC Khilnani, former Head of Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine and Chairman of PSRI, IPCSM, AIIMS New Delhi, explains that snoring can indicate a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea, which is quite prevalent. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when individuals, especially those with a short neck, obesity, enlarged tonsils, or other contributing factors, experience a decrease in airflow to the lungs as their muscles relax during sleep. This reduced airflow leads to increased snoring as the sleep cycle deepens. Consequently, this condition affects not only the lungs but also the brain and heart, reducing overall oxygen levels throughout the body. Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea often face fragmented sleep, leading to a dry mouth at night and persistent daytime drowsiness.
Dr Khilnani explains that due to less oxygen reaching not only the brain and heart but also other parts of the body, such persons face many health issues like brain stroke, heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest and also high blood pressure. Dr Khilnani notes that snoring is particularly prevalent among obese individuals, affecting 70 to 80 percent of them. Obesity contributes to snoring through factors such as a protruding belly, a thick neck, and fat deposits within the throat. Structural issues like a deviated nasal bone or conditions like a cold can obstruct breathing and lead to snoring.
Treatment options for snoring include:
Weight Loss: The most effective and straightforward method to reduce snoring is to lose weight. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and abdomen, can contribute to snoring. As weight decreases, snoring typically diminishes as well.
C-Pap Machine: The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (C-Pap) machine helps manage snoring by maintaining a consistent air pressure throughout the night. This device is worn over the nose and throat while sleeping and ensures that airways remain open, improving sleep quality and overall health.
Surgery: In cases where anatomical issues, such as large tonsils or a structurally problematic throat, contribute to snoring, surgical intervention may be necessary. ENT surgeons can perform operations to correct these issues and improve airflow.
Dental Appliances: Customised dental appliances can also be used to address snoring. These devices reposition the jaw slightly forward, which can reduce snoring and alleviate mild cases of sleep apnea. They are generally less effective for severe cases and require tailoring to each individual patient.
