Sleep & Snoring Treatments

Medical help for snoring includes an evaluation for the snoring's severity. Evaluation is performed with a complete history, examination and for some an at home sleep study (Itamar Watch Pad™).

Snoring and some cases of mild to moderate sleep apnea can be successfully treated in several ways, including behavior modifications (weight loss, smoking cessation) and several in-the-doctor's-office procedures including the latest technologies of radiofrequency stiffening of vibrating tissues (Coblation™) and Pillar Implant™. Some patients are candidates for a retainer like device (oral appliance) for managing snoring and sleep apnea without surgery.

Post-Op Instructions for Snoring Surgery
Post-Op Instructions for Sleep Apnea Surgery

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What is obstructive sleep apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea (where breathing periodically stops or is shallow) is an unsuccessful attempt to breathe through the nose and/or mouth. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea are troubled by periods of apnea (when breathing stops) during which the blood's oxygen levels drop. This may result in serious physical problems including high blood pressure, lung insufficiency, stroke and heart problems such as abnormal heart rate and rhythm. Obstructive sleep apnea can deprive you of oxygen which causes you to also be deprived of "deep" sleep. You may then be sleepy much of the day, and may even fall asleep while driving, or on the job.

How is snoring treated?

A physician must determine whether sleep apnea is your problem. The solution may be as simple as managing a nasal allergy or infection, or reshaping the soft palate using laser or radiofrequency energy or by stiffening the soft palate with an implant. Treatments are often performed in the physician's office, uses exacting technology to reduce the snoring. If the problem is nasal blockage office treatments can reduce the obstruction and to make it easier to sleep.

Learn about the Pillar Procedure
What the Pillar Procedure Video

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