Snoring occurs when airflow through the mouth and nose is partially blocked during sleep. Causes can include nasal congestion, being overweight, alcohol use, or sleeping on your back.
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when the airway becomes repeatedly blocked during sleep, reducing oxygen intake. This can lead to heart issues, high blood pressure, and cognitive problems.
ENT specialists can examine your airways, perform a sleep study, and recommend treatments like:
Surgery to remove obstructions (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils)
Final Thoughts:
Don’t dismiss snoring as just an annoyance. If you or a loved one has symptoms of sleep apnea, talk to an ENT and reclaim your sleep—and your health.