Many people don’t realize that snoring can be a sign of more serious conditions, including sleep apnea and sinus problems. If you snore, an evaluation from an ear, nose, and throat doctor can determine whether you need specific treatment. To understand the best options for snoring, the ear, nose, and throat experts at Arizona Coast Ear Nose & Throat, Allergy & Sleep Medicine in Lake Havasu City, AZ, share a brief guide. 

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring is the harsh breathing sound that occurs when air slips past the relaxed throat tissues and causes vibrations. Snoring can be caused by a number of different factors, from sinus or allergy issues to disorders like sleep apnea. Some people have narrow sinus cavities or a low, thick soft palate, which makes them more prone to snoring. If you have allergies that leave your nose stuffed up or have chronic nasal congestion, you are more likely to snore.

Additionally, alcohol consumption or not getting enough sleep can cause snoring because it relaxes the throat muscles and makes those vibrations more prone to occur. If your snoring becomes a chronic habit or begins to impact your sleeping or breathing patterns, schedule an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat doctor.

Treatments for Snoring

Snoring is usually harmless. However, you should still get checked by a physician to see if sleep apnea, sinus problems, or throat abnormalities are present. They will examine your anatomy and determine if these factors are causing the snoring. An ear, nose, and throat doctor will also consider factors like quality of life and sleep or breathing patterns to recommend the proper course of treatment. Depending on the cause of snoring, medical solutions can range from oral appliances to align the position of the jaw and throat, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines to provide a constant flow of air while you sleep, or upper airway surgery. 

Snoring isn’t just annoying; it can be detrimental to your sleep and overall health. Visit an ENT professional today to determine why you’re snoring and what to do about it.

Arizona Coast Ear Nose & Throat, Allergy & Sleep Medicine in Mohave County and the surrounding areas, provides evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions impacting your sinus, throat, and auditory health. Their ear, nose, and throat doctors are well-versed in diagnosing and treating conditions ranging from hearing loss and thyroid issues to chronic snoring. To learn more about this practice, visit their website or call (928) 854-5368.