What is Snoring?

Snoring is defined as noisy breathing during sleep.

It is caused by vibrations of the soft palate, uvula,
base of tongue and other soft tissues in the throat
when one inhales.

As much as 50% to 60% of the male adult population, between the ages of 30 - 60 years, snores.

Is Snoring a problem?

Snoring is a social nuisance. However, it can be a potential problem, especially if it disturbs the bed partner. Snoring can lead to marital problems, irritation and anger at home.

If a patient who snores has symptoms of tiredness, poor concentration, daytime sleepiness, choking sensations at night, this patient may have a serious medical problem called Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?

OSA is a disorder that is characterised by repetitive collapse of the airway, resulting in low oxygen levels and an elevated blood pressure.

Apnoea is defined as an absence or stoppage in breathing for 10 seconds or longer.

Patients with severe OSA, may stop breathing as often as once every minute, over the entire night's rest.

Diagnosis of OSA requires a thorough clinical examination and a flexible naso-endoscopy. A non-invasive painless sleep assessment is also strongly recommended.

During the day:
Daytime sleepiness / tiredness
Poor concentration
Poor memory
Morning headaches
Mood changes
Irritability

During the night:
Choking sensation
Gasping for air during sleep
Frequent arousals
Nocturia (frequent passing urine)
Loud snoring

Obesity
Hypertension
Ischaemic Heart Disease
Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accidents)
Diabetes Mellitus

Paediatric Snoring / OSA

Children who snore at night may be suspected of OSA. These children may have nose block or narrow air passages due to big tonsils and adenoids. Children with OSA have insufficient oxygen at night. Hence, they are prone to behavioural disorders, short attention spans, and poorer school performances.

Treatment of OSA in children can be curative.