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Snoring is one of the most recurring problems people experience during sleep. It affects about ninety million Americans every year, be it persistent or sporadic snoring. Most people experience snoring at some point in their lives. If the snoring is constant, it could be an indicator of a more significant health problem.

Why Should Snoring Be Treated?

Snoring can be a nuisance to those around you. It can also signify a more severe disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Numerous pauses categorize OSA, the breathing rate greater than ten seconds due to upper airway narrowing or collapsing. This lessens the oxygen levels in the blood, making the heart beat faster. As the snorer does not get sufficient rest, they may feel sleepy during the day, which affects their daily routine. OSA can lead to stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, motor vehicle accidents, and more if not treated.

What Are the Symptoms That Accompany Snoring?

Snoring is accompanied by other signs that could indicate an underlying health condition that should be treated. Some symptoms include:

• Frequent sore throats
• Nasal drainage and congestion
• Itchy, watery eyes and sneezing
•  Fatigue and drowsiness
• Nose bleeding
• Mouth breathing
• Sinus infection & allergies
• Deviated septum
• Excess soft tissue in the neck
• Tonsils and adenoids 
• Cysts & tumors

What Are the Treatment Options?

There are many treatment alternatives available for people with snoring problems. 

• If a person is obese, then weight loss can cure snoring. 
• A surgical procedure called Pillar implants involves the insertion of rods into the soft palate. 
• To prevent the lower part of the throat from collapsing and pull the tongue muscles forward, a surgical procedure called Genioglossus and hyoid advancement can be performed.
• A snoreplasty is a surgical procedure that can reduce snoring. This office procedure performed under local anesthesia will help strengthen the soft palate and uvula. This will prevent the quivering of the soft tissues that cause snoring.
• CPAP is a standard treatment to treat obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP device includes a mask that should be worn over the nose and mouth. It is connected to a machine that delivers a steady amount of pressure. This pressure helps to keep the airway open. 

Home Care Tips to Cure Snoring

• Sleep in a sideways position.
• Keep your head in a raised position with a few extra pillows.
• Follow a regular sleep routine. 
• Eat healthy food and exercise regularly. 
• Quit smoking, and limit your alcohol consumption.
• Avoid using sedatives or sleeping aids. 

If you have any of the symptoms associated with snoring, visit Mountain View Advanced Dental, at  74 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View CA 94040, or call us at (650) 988-9458 to schedule an appointment.