What Causes Snoring and How ENT Specialists Can Help
A medical professional is using an otoscope to examine a patient's ear during a clinical evaluation.
Snoring is a common nighttime nuisance that affects not only the person snoring but also anyone trying to sleep nearby. While it’s often joked about, chronic snoring can be a sign of a more serious medical condition and should not be ignored. Fortunately, ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialists have a deep understanding of the causes of snoring and offer effective snoring treatment options tailored to each patient.
Snoring occurs when airflow is partially blocked during sleep, causing the surrounding tissues to vibrate. This blockage often happens in the throat, mouth, or nasal passages. One of the most common causes is relaxed throat muscles, which can be due to age or sleep position. Other factors include nasal congestion, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, obesity, alcohol use, or structural issues like a deviated septum.
For some people, snoring is simply an annoyance. For others, it's a symptom of a serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA occurs when the airway becomes completely blocked during sleep, leading to repeated awakenings and reduced oxygen intake. People with OSA may experience extreme fatigue during the day, difficulty concentrating, and even increased risk for heart problems if left untreated. That’s why it’s so important to identify whether your snoring is part of a larger health concern.
An ENT specialist is uniquely qualified to evaluate the anatomy of your airway and determine the root cause of your snoring. They may perform a physical examination, ask about your sleep habits, or refer you for a sleep study. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment can begin.
Treatment options vary depending on the cause. For mild cases, lifestyle changes may be recommended, such as sleeping on your side, losing weight, or avoiding alcohol before bedtime. Nasal strips or nasal sprays can help reduce nasal congestion. If the cause is more structural, such as enlarged tissues or nasal blockage, procedures or surgeries may be discussed.
If your snoring is linked to sleep apnea, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine may be recommended. This device keeps the airway open by delivering a constant flow of air through a mask during sleep. Some patients may benefit from custom oral appliances that reposition the jaw or tongue.
You don’t have to live with disrupted sleep. Whether it’s simple snoring or a sign of a more serious issue, seeking a personalized snoring treatment plan from an ENT professional is the first step. If you’re struggling with nightly noise or waking up feeling unrefreshed, now is the time to take action. Learn more about advanced solutions by exploring the sleep apnea care options available through our ENT specialists.