Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them

By Dr. Poonam Singla, Senior Consultant – ENT, Moolchand

Introduction

Snoring is common, but it can sometimes indicate sleep apnea, a serious condition that affects breathing during sleep. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to fatigue, cardiovascular issues, and decreased quality of life.

At Moolchand, one of the top hospitals in Delhi, superb physicians like Dr. Poonam Singla use cutting-edge technology to diagnose and manage snoring and sleep apnea, providing compassionate care, guided by integrity and affordable prices.

What Causes Snoring and Sleep Apnea?

·       Obstructed airways due to nasal congestion, enlarged tonsils, or a deviated septum

·       Obesity contributing to excess tissue in the throat

·       Sleep position – lying on the back may worsen airway obstruction

·       Alcohol or sedatives – relax throat muscles and increase snoring

·       Age-related changes – loss of muscle tone in the throat

Symptoms to Watch For

·       Loud, frequent snoring

·       Pauses in breathing during sleep

·       Gasping or choking episodes at night

·       Morning headaches and excessive daytime sleepiness

·       Difficulty concentrating or irritability

Why Early Consultation Matters

·       Prevent complications: Untreated sleep apnea can increase risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke

·       Accurate diagnosis: ENT specialists use sleep studies, imaging, and nasal assessments to identify causes

·       Personalized treatment: From lifestyle modifications to surgical interventions

Treatment Options

1. Lifestyle Modifications

·       Weight management

·       Avoid alcohol or sedatives before bedtime

·       Sleep on your side to reduce airway obstruction

2. Medical Devices

·       CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) to keep airways open

·       Oral appliances to reposition the jaw and tongue

3. Surgical Interventions

·       Septoplasty or turbinate reduction for nasal obstruction

·       Tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy if enlarged tonsils or adenoids contribute

·       Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) to remove excess throat tissue

Why Choose Moolchand?

·       Superb physicians: Dr. Poonam Singla provides expert evaluation and treatment plans

·       Cutting-edge technology: Advanced sleep studies and minimally invasive procedures

·       Compassionate care: Support throughout diagnosis and treatment

·       Integrity and affordable prices: Honest advice and accessible care for all patients

Final Thoughts

Snoring may seem harmless, but it can indicate serious sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Timely consultation with an ENT specialist ensures early diagnosis, effective treatment, and better overall health.