Snoring and Sleep Apnoea

Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) are breathing disorders, which occur during sleep, due to a narrowing or total closure of the airways.

Snoring is a noise created by the partial blocking of the airway. During sleep, the muscles relax, including those that control the tongue and throat, causing sagging of these soft tissues and narrowing of the airway. Inhalation causes the soft palate and throat to vibrate, resulting in the sound we recognise as snoring.

Although snoring itself is considered a nuisance more than anything else, loud snoring could be a sign of a more serious problem – OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea). OSA is when the airway becomes completely blocked and breathing stops. The brain then detects the lack of oxygen and prompts a momentary arousal to draw breath. Although OSA sufferers may experience hundreds of apnoea episodes per night, they are unlikely to remember any of them. In fact, if the sufferer lives alone or sleeps separately they may not be aware of their condition, even after many years.

Sleep Apnoea can cause daytime sleepiness and fatigue,  and has been implicated in an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, high blood pressure, arrhythmias, diabetes and headaches.

Although there are many treatments for snoring and sleep apnoea, the use of an intra-oral device called a mandibular advancement splint (MAS) has been shown to be beneficial to many snorers and OSA sufferers. This two-part acrylic splint positions the mandible (lower jaw) forward so that it prevents the obstruction of the airways and allows for a comfortable and quiet night’s rest. This in turn can greatly reduce the complications associated with OSA.

Dr Lazaris has become trained in the differentiation and diagnosis of these conditions, and in conjunction with a Specialist Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon (ENT), can prescribe and fit the MAS device in suitable patients.

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