Snoring Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ

Otolaryngology & Facial Plastic Surgery located in Scottsdale, AZ & Fountain Hills, AZ

Find Relief from Sleep Apnea Symptoms

At Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center in Scottsdale, AZ, we recognize the disruptive effects that snoring can have on both your quality of sleep and overall well-being. Our experienced team of ENT specialists offers personalized evaluations and a range of treatment options to address snoring. Take the first step toward a quieter, more restful night’s sleep by scheduling a consultation with our specialists today.

Sleep & Snoring Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ
Sleep Apnea & Snoring Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ

What’s the Difference Between Snoring & Sleep Apnea?

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 be disruptive to sleep quality, it does not necessarily indicate a severe health issue. On the other hand, sleep apnea involves the repeated interruption of breathing during sleep, leading to a decrease in blood oxygen levels and potentially causing significant health risks.

Common Types of Snoring

Snoring can manifest in various forms, each with unique characteristics and potential causes. Here are some common types of snoring:

  • Mouth Snoring – Often caused by the relaxation of the mouth and throat tissues during sleep, this type of snoring typically results in loud, open-mouthed breathing sounds, often exacerbated by poor sleeping positions or nasal congestion.
  • Nasal Snoring – Occurring due to obstructed nasal passages or congestion, nasal snoring is characterized by wheezing or snorting sounds as individuals struggle to breathe through their noses during sleep.
  • Tongue-Based Snoring – Tongue-based snoring can occur when the tongue falls back into the throat, obstructing the airway and causing vibrations that lead to snoring sounds. This type of snoring is often associated with the relaxation of throat muscles during sleep.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea & Snoring

Identifying the common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring is crucial in recognizing potential sleep-related breathing disorders and seeking appropriate medical intervention. Common snoring and sleep apnea symptoms include:

  • Loud, Persistent Snoring – Snoring is a prevalent symptom of both OSA and simple snoring, characterized by loud and disruptive breathing noises during sleep, often resulting from airway obstruction or tissue vibration.
  • Daytime Sleepiness and Fatigue – Individuals with OSA or chronic snoring often experience excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue due to disrupted sleep patterns and inadequate rest, impacting their overall energy levels and daily functioning.
  • Morning Headaches and Dry MouthWaking up with frequent morning headaches and a dry or sore throat may be associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or chronic snoring, and can result from disrupted airflow or mouth breathing during sleep.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Scottsdale, AZ

Causes of Snoring & OSA

Multiple physiological and lifestyle-related elements can play a role in developing OSA and snoring, impacting overall sleep quality and well-being. A few common causes of OSA and snoring include:

  • Excess Weight or Obesity – Excessive weight and obesity can lead to the accumulation of fatty tissues around the neck and throat, causing airway narrowing and obstruction during sleep, contributing to both OSA and snoring.
  • Nasal Congestion and Obstruction – Chronic nasal congestion, allergies, or structural issues such as a deviated septum can obstruct normal airflow, leading to mouth breathing and an increased risk of snoring and sleep apnea.
  • Muscle Relaxation During Sleep – The relaxation of throat muscles during sleep can result in the collapse of soft tissues in the throat, obstructing the airway and leading to episodes of snoring and potentially OSA.
  • Alcohol Consumption and Sedatives – Intake of alcohol and sedatives can cause excessive muscle relaxation, including the muscles in the throat, leading to increased snoring and potentially worsening symptoms of OSA due to the heightened risk of airway collapse during sleep.

Snoring Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough evaluation of the individual’s medical history and sleep patterns, often accompanied by a physical examination to assess potential anatomical or physiological contributors to snoring. In some cases, sleep studies or specialized assessments may be recommended to evaluate the severity of the condition. Treatment is guided by diagnosis and severity, and may include lifestyle changes such as weight loss and positional therapy, the use of oral appliances, or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Surgical intervention is generally considered only when structural abnormalities are present and other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

Contact Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center

Improve your sleep and address disruptive snoring with expert care from Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center in Scottsdale, AZ. Our experienced team provides personalized evaluations and a range of treatment options tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better rest and lasting relief.