Snoring

Find information about various throat-related conditions.

WHAT ARE SNORING AND HOW DO THEY OCCUR?

Snoring affects more than a quarter of the population, causing lack of sleep for bed partners and potentially leading to a range of health problems. Snoring can have a significant impact on overall well-being, from strained relationships due to disrupted sleep to much more serious conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Fortunately, simple in-office treatments can help resolve this problem for affected individuals who are unaware of their nighttime snoring or are unable to control it.

    Snoring is a sound commonly heard during sleep and one that most of us are familiar with. It is more common in men than in women and may increase as we age. Essentially, it occurs when the tissue surrounding the nose or mouth vibrates due to the narrowness of the airways while breathing, creating a easily recognizable sound for those around us at night who are entering a peaceful sleep.

    Snoring is a surprisingly common sleep disorder that affects about 37 million adults in the United States alone and disrupts not only their own sleep patterns but also those of their partners. Snoring, which can range from intermittent to continuous and from soft to loud, can have social repercussions for bed partners and lead to lower-quality sleep for everyone involved, with potentially serious health consequences if left untreated.

    CAUSES
    When sleeping, the muscles in the throat relax, and this can cause an imbalance in the upper airways. This imbalance can lead to vibrations while breathing, a sound that we know as snoring. Areas such as the nose, soft palate (roof of the mouth), uvula, or tonsils can contribute to this annoying noise during sleep, and it varies from person to person.
    Dr. Gonzalo Jimenez is qualified to help diagnose exactly where these irregularities are coming from in order to properly assist in finding personalized solutions to achieve uninterrupted sleep in each individual’s situation.
    SYMPTOMS
    Snoring disrupts sleep quality and can have far-reaching consequences, such as fatigue and lack of concentration during the day, weakened immune system, heart rhythm disorders, and negative emotional effects ranging from irritability to strains in relationships.
    TREATMENTS

    NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT

    Non-surgical treatment involves some lifestyle and behavioral changes, such as weight loss if necessary, abstaining from alcohol or sedatives, and quitting smoking. In addition, orthopedic devices may be suitable in cases of mild snoring that have not responded to other treatments. Finally, nasal CPAP is a device that helps keep the nasal passages more open during inhalation and exhalation cycles, providing sustained pressure relief throughout the night.

    SURGICAL TREATMENT

    Nasal surgery can improve the sensation of airflow for those who suffer from irregularities and abnormalities in their nasal passages. Through surgeries such as septoplasty, valve repair, or cauterization of the turbinates, individuals may experience improved health due to increased respiratory comfort in this vital area of the body.

    Do you have any questions?

    Dr. Gonzalo Jimenez understands that a surgical intervention is a big decision, so you can contact him through his phone number or email, or request an appointment where you can clarify all your doubts.

    Learn about Dr. Gonzalo Jimenez.

    Dr. Gonzalo Jimenez has extensive experience in the field of otorhinolaryngology, specializing in nose aesthetic surgery, offering quality service and a friendly approach.

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