Snoring is often dismissed as a harmless nuisance, but in some cases, it can be a sign of a more serious health issue. If you or a loved one snores frequently or loudly, it may be time to look beyond the noise and consider what your body is trying to tell you.

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring is the sound that is made as a result of partial blockage of airflow through the nose and mouth during sleep. The partial blockage of airflow causes the tissues in the throat to vibrate, resulting in snoring. Nasal congestion, alcohol consumption, obesity, sleeping position, and airway structure are some of the factors that cause snoring.

While occasional snoring is regular, habitual or loud snoring may be a sign of an underlying disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

The Link Between Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which the airway is repeatedly blocked during sleep, resulting in decreased or halted airflow. The pauses in breathing can last for several seconds and happen numerous times a night. One of the most notable symptoms of OSA is loud snoring, but other indications are:

• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood changes

Untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health problems.

When to See an ENT Specialist

If you or your bed partner notice the symptoms of interrupted breathing during sleep, it should be reported to a healthcare professional. An ENT doctor can examine your airway and determine whether snoring is a symptom of a more significant issue. A physical exam, nasal endoscopy, or sleep study may be used to observe breathing during the night and aid in making the diagnosis.

Based on the outcome, treatment may range from lifestyle modification to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral appliance therapy, or surgery to open the airway.

Take Snoring Seriously

Snoring isn’t always just a noisy inconvenience. In many cases, it’s the body’s way of signaling a more profound issue. If you're concerned about snoring or other sleep-related symptoms, don’t wait to get evaluated. An ENT specialist can help identify the cause and recommend the right treatment to help you breathe and sleep better.