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| Snoring: General | How Does Primary Snoring Differ from Snoring that Indicates Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
• A complaint of snoring by an observer
• No evidence of insomnia or excessive sleepiness due to the snoring
• Dryness of the mouth upon awakening
A polysomnogram (sleep study) that shows:
• Snoring and other sounds often occurring for long episodes during the sleep period
• No associated abrupt arousals, arterial oxygen desaturation (lowered amount of oxygen in the blood) or cardiac disturbances
• Normal sleep patterns
• Normal respiratory patterns during sleep
• No signs of other sleep disorders
What can be done about primary snoring?
First of all, it is absolutely necessary to rule out obstructive sleep apnea or other sleep disorders. Distrust any doctor who says it is not necessary. Lifestyle and behavioral changes may be suggested.
- Losing weight, sleeping on your side, refraining from alcohol and sedatives are often recommended.
Oral/Dental Devices
There are mouth/oral devices (that help keep the airway open) on the market that may help to reduce snoring in three different ways.
Here are some devices:
1. bring the jaw forward
2. elevate the soft palate
3. retain the tongue (from falling back in the airway and thus decreasing snoring).
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