Is Snoring Always a Symptom of Sleep Apnea?

Submitted by New Jersey Snoring Solutions on Fri 02/23/2024 - 09:00

Snoring is a widespread occurrence, but its severity can vary. While snoring is often regarded as an annoying yet harmless incident, it can sometimes indicate the existence of an underlying condition such as sleep apnea. Ahead, Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein of New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions detail the relationship between snoring and sleep apnea, as well as when it is necessary to seek treatment for the condition.

About Snoring

Snoring is the harsh, often loud sound that escapes when relaxed tissues in the throat vibrate as you breath. Snoring can occur in almost anyone now and then, such as those suffering from allergies or nasal congestion. However, some individuals experience snoring as a chronic issue. Sometimes, snoring can be extremely loud, and you may end up waking yourself up due to the noise, especially if you are a light sleeper. Excessive snoring can also be a detriment to your partner or anyone else in range. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, adjusting your medications, quitting smoking, and limiting the consumption of alcohol, are often recommended to help you stop snoring, but this advice may not be effective if you have sleep apnea.

Other Sleep Apnea Symptoms

While not everyone who snores will have sleep apnea, when snoring is experienced with other symptoms, it may be time to schedule an appointment for an obstructive sleep apnea evaluation. Other symptoms include:

• Repeated pauses in breathing during sleep
• Issues concentrating on tasks, especially during the day
• Frequent daytime sleepiness
• Headaches upon waking
• Sensation of a sore throat after waking up
• Tossing and turning during sleep
• Choking, coughing, or gasping for air at night
• Hypertension
• Chest pressure or pain at night

Sleep apnea can affect children as well. If you notice that your child has been exhibiting behavioral changes or poor performance in school, poor sleep due to sleep apnea could be a cause.

When Is It Time to Seek Treatment?

Any of the aforementioned symptoms may be reason alone to see a doctor. Sleep apnea can have serious health consequences, and therefore patients must remain observant of any symptoms associated with the condition so that quick and effective treatment can be administered.

Fortunately, sleep-apnea-related snoring can be treated with oral appliance therapy at New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions.

Snoring Relief in New Jersey

While snoring may not always be a symptom of sleep apnea, it should not be dismissed. If you have been experiencing chronic snoring — in addition to other serious symptoms related to sleep apnea —  do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our dental professionals who specialize in the treatment of sleep disorders. Contact us today for an appointment.