Here is a wake-up call for snorers; did you know that snoring affects approximately 90 million adults living in the United States? “Although snoring is common and many of us have learned to live with it, the truth is snoring is not normal and should not be ignored,” states Dr. Mayank Shukla; sleep specialist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.
Snoring occurs when air flow through the nose or mouth is physically obstructed while sleeping. This can be the result of several factors including nasal congestion, excessive throat and nasal tissue, sleep deprivation or a tongue muscle that has become too relaxed during sleep.
Snoring on occasion does not raise cause for great concern. People who snore occasionally could try the following solutions recommended by Dr. Shukla to help them or their loved ones to get a restful night’s sleep:
- Avoid sleeping on your back
- Use a humidifier if the air in your room is dry
- Adjust your pillows to keep your head elevated
- Open nasal passages by using steam , nasal strips or salt water rinse
- Reduce consumption of alcohol or other sedatives
- Stay hydrated
- Get your recommended amount of sleep
However, if you are a frequent snorer, these solutions may not benefit you as there may be serious health conditions such as stroke, heart disease or hypertension connected to your chronic snoring. Dr. Shukla suggests that you consult your physician as soon as possible if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Frequent waking from sleep
- Chronic headaches
- Daytime sleepiness
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Gasping for air or choking while snoring
These symptoms are commonly associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a disorder which causes a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. OSA can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke and in severe cases, death. A sleep study may be required to diagnose OSA.
There are several treatments your doctor may recommend; the most common is a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. Additional methods of treatment may include medication, oral appliances, surgery, or lifestyle adjustments such as losing weight or quitting smoking.
Jamaica Hospital’s state- of-the-art Sleep Center provides several testing options to diagnose and treat sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea. Our staff consists of highly skilled, board-certified sleep specialists and respiratory therapists. We also boast an impressive 2:1 technician patient ratio, which provides our patients with the optimal attention they need during their sleep study. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mayank Shuklah or other sleep specialists at Jamaica Hospital, please call, 718-206-5916.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.