A long uvula makes matters worse. The new Laser Technique eliminates this cause of snoring according to Dr. Gatti. Snoring can cause other family members sleepless nights and often restlessness. Because of spouse discomfort, numerous domestic quarrels can occur and in some cases divorce. OSA is far more prevalent in the general population than previously believed.
Diagnosis is made when loud snoring is interrupted by episodes of completely obstructed breathing.
The condition can be serious and sometimes fatal if these episodes last longer than 10 seconds and occur more than 7 times per hour. The cumulative effect is reduced oxygen levels to the brain, forcing the snorer to stay in a light sleep stage so that the breathing passage muscles are kept tighter. The snorer is then deprived of the rest achieved only during deep sleep and may lead to sleepiness during the daytime hours, on the job, or worse while at the wheel of a car. Differentiating snoring from sleep apnea begins in an Ear, Nose, and Throat physicians office where a complete Head and Neck examination is performed. An interview with the patient's spouse is recommended at this time.