Snoring is more than just a sound that occurs during sleep. It is a medical disease that should be diagnosed by a physician and then treated. Snoring has been associated with sleep deprivation, daytime drowsiness, irritability, lack of focus and decreased libido. Loud snoring has been associated with increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
If you’re not sure if you snore, you can get a sleep study done or see a physician. If you already know that you’re a snorer, you should inform your doctor that you snore and of any other issues related to your sleep (for example, if anyone has ever told you that you stop breathing, gasp or make choking sounds while sleeping). Your physician will then complete a sleep evaluation (or refer you out to have one done) and may refer you to a board-certified sleep medicine physician if needed.
A dentist should not offer to treat your snoring without it first being diagnosed by a physician.
Snore-reducing devices are affordable and can work when set up appropriately. However, you are on your own when it comes to setting them up and using them. Snore-reducing devices, when improperly fit, can create side effects like jaw pain and dental changes. Using a snore-reducing device without any supervision by a dentist can leave you at risk for harm, so please be sure to let your dentist know if you are using one. Also, if the snore-reducing device doesn’t work, be sure to tell your physician and explore other options to be sure that your snoring is properly treated.
Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and sleeping on your side can help to reduce snoring in some cases. But sometimes these adjustments ‘aren’t enough, and at times, ‘they’re not the cause of snoring to begin with. In these cases, your doctor can prescribe a custom-fit oral appliance that can be made by a qualified dentist. For more information about oral appliances, contact Sleep Better Wisconsin at 920-544-0084
Treating sleep apnea promotes a healthier heart, body and mind. With Dr Bob’s help, you can improve your sleep and your health!
