SNORING
SNORING AS A GLOBAL ISSUE
PREVALENCE OF SNORING WORLDWIDE
Snoring is a prevalent issue that affects a significant portion of the global population. According to various studies:
- Approximately 40% of adult men snore
- Around 24% of adult women are habitual snorers
PREVALENCE OF SNORING WORLDWIDE
In Singapore, the statistics mirror global trends. Surveys indicate that:
- 1 in 4 adults experience sleep disorders
- Snoring is a common complaint
WHAT CAUSES SNORING?
Snoring is a common condition that occurs when the flow of air through the mouth and nose is partially blocked during sleep. This obstruction leads to vibrations in the surrounding tissues, producing the sound we identify as snoring. Dr Sandeep Uppal and his team at The ENT Clinic often encounter a range of causes for snoring, which can include:
ANATOMICAL FACTORS
Nasal Congestion
Blocked or narrow nasal passages can make inhalation difficult, leading to snoring. x
Deviated Nasal Septum
An irregularity in the nasal septum (partition between the nostrils) can obstruct airflow and contribute to snoring.
Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids
These can narrow the airway and are a common cause of snoring in children or adults.
Long Soft Palate and Uvula
A long soft palate or uvula can narrow the opening from the nose into the throat, disrupting airflow and causing snoring.
LIFESTYLE FACTORS
Obesity
Excess weight, especially around the neck, can put pressure on the airway, making snoring more likely.
Alcohol and Sedatives
These substances relax the muscles of the throat and tongue, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction.
Fast-paced, high-stress environment
The bustling city-state lifestyle in Singapore adds to the challenge of snoring management.
Irregular sleep patterns
Erratic sleep schedules further compound the issue of snoring in individuals living in such a demanding environment.
Smoking
It can irritate and inflame the airway, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
SLEEP POSITION
Sleeping on one’s back can cause the tongue and soft palate to collapse backward, partially obstructing the airway.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Allergies
Chronic nasal congestion from allergies can obstruct the airways and lead to snoring.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
This condition can cause throat irritation and swelling, which may contribute to snoring.
Allergies
Menopause and Pregnancy
Hormonal changes can lead to muscle relaxation and weight gain, both of which contribute to snoring.
Aging
Muscle tone in the throat decreases with age, which can lead to snoring.
IMPACT OF SNORING
While snoring may seem innocuous or even humorous to some, it can be a symptom of more serious health conditions.
It may be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which can lead to a range of complications:
- High blood pressure (Hypertension)
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Significant source of tension in relationships as noise often disturbs the sleep of the snorer’s partner.
DR SANDEEP’S SNORING RESEARCH
Uppal S, Nadig S, Jones C, Nicolaides AR, Coatesworth AP. A prospective single blind randomised controlled trial comparing two surgical treatments for the treatment of snoring: Laser palatoplasty versus uvulectomy with punctate palatal diathermy. Clin Otol. 2004; 29, 254-263.
DON'T LET SNORING DISRUPT YOUR LIFE—TAKE CONTROL NOW!
In light of these statistics and potential complications, the need for specialized care in treating snoring and related conditions becomes evident. That is where Dr Sandeep Uppal and his team step in, providing expert diagnosis and a range of treatment options tailored to each individual’s needs.
Managing snoring effectively involves a multidisciplinary approach that combines medical expertise with advanced technology, offering a comprehensive range of services designed to diagnose and treat snoring and its underlying causes.
Take action today and manage your or your partners snoring effectively with our multidisciplinary approach. We combine medical expertise with advanced technology, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to diagnose and treat snoring and its underlying causes.
Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive consultation and let us tailor a solution that is as individual as you are.