The corresponding times on the video recording can then be inspected to clarify the diagnosis. In recent years there has been a move away from the complex multiple measurements known as polysomnography. This involves the application of electrodes over the brain along with sensor devices detecting chest and limb movement along with devices to detect air flow through the nose. Full polysomnography misses snoring induced arousals and is no longer regarded as a good gold standard. It is essential that treatment is tailored to the patient's needs.
Treatment is focused upon correcting the daytime symptoms which result from sleep fragmentation.
When the sleep disturbance is not severe simple approaches can help. Carefully chosen individuals can be helped by simple dental devices which slightly advance the lower jaw during sleep and help to keep the airway open. In selected cases medication can be very effective. When snoring is very objectionable, with the individual and the partner desperate for a solution, then an operation on the back of the throat may help - but this is a very last resort and should only be done when a sleep study has shown snoring alone with very little, or no, sleep apnoea. Surgery has NOT been shown to be beneficial for people with sleep apnoea and is best avoided for this condition until we learn more about the mechanisms behind it.