Healthy Living

with Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom

 

When Snoring Is More Than a "Nuisance"

Snoring is a remarkably common health problem. Nearly half of American adults snore, at least occasionally (allergies, sinus infections), but one in four is a chronic snorer. While occasional snoring is no cause for concern, regular loud and frequent snorers can have a variety of health risks that need a closer look.

What Is Snoring?
Snoring occurs during the transition from light to deep sleep, when the muscles of your tongue, roof of the mouth and throat can relax enough to vibrate and partially close up your airway. The greater the vibrations, the louder the snoring. Your airway can also be blocked by a range of factors, including blocked nasal passages (sinus infection), bulky throat tissue (obesity) and anatomical problems (an extra-long uvula, which is that little hanging piece of tissue in the back of your mouth).

What Are the Health Risks of Snoring?
The most serious illness related to chronic snoring is obstructive sleep apnea.
During sleep, people with sleep apnea can have interrupted breathing caused by a blocked airway. This causes frequent waking, of which the person may not even be aware. These repeated awakenings prevent a sound sleep. Snorers' persistent sleep apnea can also affect heart function, since blood oxygen levels are often lower, causing the heart to pump harder and blood pressure to rise. This negative cycle also leads to a chronic lack of a restful sleep, as well as daytime fatigue and sleepiness. Many people with sleep apnea don't even know they have it, although the snoring is a major symptom. If the snorer shares a bed or bedroom with another person, that person's sleep also can be affected because of the noise, and he or she loses sleep. That can result in his or her recommending a solution to the snorer (earplugs or a separate room are both very unromantic options!).

Can Lifestyle Changes Help?
Weight loss is a must-do for the treatment of sleep apnea. Studies show that nearly 95 percent of patients with sleep apnea carry extra weight. Avoid alcohol or at least limit consumption at least three to four hours before bedtime (that goes for a heavy meal as well!). Sleep on your side rather than on your back. Try propping up the head of your bed about 4 inches with extra pillows, or place a support between the bed frame and your mattress.
While there are dozens of devices promising to "cure" snoring, most are more hype than help. Save your money, and visit your doctor when lifestyle change is not enough.

What Are the Medical Options?
Medical treatment starts with a visit to your primary-care physician. You may be referred to an "ear, nose and throat" doctor, known more formally as an otolaryngologist. Depending upon the severity of your symptoms, you'll likely be asked to go for a "sleep study," during which you will be tested for the number and kinds of airway blockages you experience. You may be fitted with a nasal mask, termed a C-PAP, which keeps your airway open by pushing a continuous flow of air provided by the mask. In some cases, surgery can repair an anatomical blockage causing airway closing.

Bottom Line on Snoring:
If you or your partner is a regular snorer, seek some professional help. Chronic lack of sleep can take a toll on your health. Snoring can be managed and often eliminated by a combination of lifestyle and medical strategies.

If you have a health question for Dr. Fernstrom, e-mail her at fernstrom@wqed.org.

 

Dr. Madelyn H. Fernstrom, Ph.D., C.N.S., is the founder and director of UPMC's Weight Management Center. She is the diet and nutrition editor for NBC's "Today Show" and is the author of The Runner's Diet. Also visit "Health Journal with Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom," a health and wellness blog at iVillage.com.