Chronic Snoring Treatment in Palm Harbor, FL

According to The American Academy of Otolaryngology, about 45 percent of adults snore occasionally. Though snoring can affect anyone, it is most common in men and people who are overweight. Snoring once and awhile is perfectly normal, but snoring on a regular basis can disrupt both your sleep patterns and the sleep patterns of those around you.

Snoring is caused when air cannot flow through the back of the throat and the nose freely. The obstruction causes the noisy, vibrating sounds of snoring. The air flow can be obstructed for a variety of reasons.

If you're struggling with chronic snoring in the Palm Harbor area, contact Gulfcoast ENT today to schedule an appointment. ENT Specialist Jose A. Berrios, MD is board-certified and a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and has extensive experience treating chronic snoring.

What Causes Snoring?

The Anatomy of Your Mouth – Anatomical reasons, such as a low palate, poor muscle tone in the throat, poor muscle tone in the tongue and narrow airways can cause snoring.

Obstruction of Nasal Airways – About 20 percent of people who snore only snore during allergy seasons or when they have a cold or sinus infection. Having a deviated septum, swollen turbinates or nasal polyps can also cause the nasal airway to have an obstruction.

Alcohol Consumption – Drinking alcohol before sleep can relax your throat muscles and decrease your defenses against airway obstruction.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea – OSA is the most serious cause of snoring. Obstructive Sleep Apnea is when airway obstruction during sleep results in short periods of time where the snorer stops breathing. OSA is often linked to sleep deprivation, heart attack, irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure.

Treatment for Snoring in Palm Harbor

You need to meet with Dr. Berrios to discuss the best treatment option for you, but for many home remedies can help reduce snoring. This can include:

• Reduce alcohol intake
• Weight loss
• Stop smoking
• Getting into a better sleep routine

If your case is more severe, you may need an oral appliance to assist you. In some cases, especially if obstructive sleep apnea is the cause, you may need surgery. 

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