Sleep is one of the most essential parts of our health—yet, at times, one of the most challenging parts to get right. Research from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute shows that 50 to 70 million Americans have sleep disorders, and 1 in 3 adults do not get the recommended amount of quality sleep for their physical needs. Besides sleep distractions like bed partners, pets, and uncomfortable sleeping conditions (due to things like poor room temperature and mattresses), snoring and difficulty breathing at night are the top sleep disruptors.
What is Snoring?
Snoring happens when air can’t flow easily through your nose or mouth, which causes loud noises during sleep. Snoring is a common condition characterized by noisy breathing during sleep, typically caused by the vibration of soft tissues in the upper airway. Although snoring can disrupt sleep quality, it does not necessarily indicate a severe health issue.
Connecting Snoring to Sinuses
Sinus health is closely related to snoring, as nasal congestion and blockages can significantly contribute to the problem. When sinus inflammation or blockages occur due to allergies, infections, or other factors, nasal airflow becomes restricted, often forcing mouth breathing. This increases the risk of snoring. Additionally, swollen sinus tissues can disrupt airflow, creating turbulence that leads to throat tissue vibrations—the primary cause of snoring sounds.
The Link Between Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Chronic snoring often indicates obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to fragmented sleep and prevent you from reaching the more profound, restorative stages of sleep. Over time, untreated OSA and persistent snoring can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Additionally, the constant fatigue and daytime sleepiness resulting from poor sleep quality can impair cognitive function, reduce productivity, and negatively impact mood, leading to a diminished overall quality of life. People with OSA are highly recommended to get a sleep study, which will indicate the severity of their condition.
Sleep Studies and How They Work
A professional sleep study, the apnea-hypopnea index, is typically conducted in a medical setting. The results are set to a scale, and a higher number directly correlates to sleep apnea severity. These studies assist health professionals in diagnosing the severity of the condition.
Other Ways to Treat Sleep Apnea
Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that aims to improve nasal airflow by opening blocked sinus passages. By improving nasal airflow and reducing congestion, balloon sinuplasty can alleviate sinus-related obstructions contributing to sleep apnea, facilitating better breathing and potentially reducing the severity of sleep apnea symptoms.
Oral Appliances
Oral appliances are specially designed devices that help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue during sleep. They can be an effective solution for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or for those who find CPAP therapy uncomfortable.
Lifestyle Modifications and Other Quick Ways to Keep Sinuses Healthy for Sleep Health
Specific lifestyle changes can positively impact sleep apnea symptoms. Examples include losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and sleeping on your side instead of your back.
Additionally, ensuring proper hydration, managing allergies, and using nasal decongestants or saline sprays can reduce nasal congestion, improve airflow, and potentially reduce snoring. Prioritizing sinus health is a proactive step towards better sleep quality and overall respiratory well-being.
How Sinus & Allergy Wellness Center Can Improve Your Sleep
If you have difficulty getting the sleep you need, seeking professional help is always recommended. The Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center staff in Scottsdale are experienced in helping people identify the root of their sleep problems and manage them through non-invasive means. Schedule an appointment today to discuss improving your health to get better sleep!
