Snoring occurs when air cannot flow freely through the throat. This is due to the obstruction in the posterior part of the oral cavity and nose. During sleep, pharyngeal muscle tension decreases. It leads to the relaxation. The soft palate and tongue vibrate during inhale and exhale phases, there is a loud sound of snoring.

Snoring is caused by partial obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by temporal, but complete closure of the air way for air flow. The result is repeated pauses in breathing (apnea) during which the patient tries to breathe.

Symptoms of the disease:

• snoring, especially loud, irregular and intermittent
• excessive sleepiness during the day
• in a morning, after waking-up, the patient is tired and sleepy
• memory impairment
• difficulty in concentration
• morning headache
• poor performance at work
• potency disorders

Severe forms of obstructive sleep apnea can cause hypertension, irregular heartbeat, brain hypoxia and other cardio-vascular problems.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is determined by overnight monitoring of sleep parameters (polisomnography- PSG). This study is based on placing of several sensors that monitor:

• air- flow through the nose and mouth,
• respiratory movements of the chest and abdomen,
• blood oxygen saturation,
• snoring.

On the basis of the results of medical examination and PSG, doctor establishes the diagnosis and proposes treatment. The most common is the CPAP pump (which produces positive airway pressure) or the oral appliance.

Our office cooperate with NZOZ SEN-MEDIX specialised in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

Treatment with oral appliance

Oral appliance is one of the method for snoring and OSA treatment. It is a small device like removable orthodontic appliance. It is worn during sleep to prevent the collapse of the soft tissues, and thus closing the air-way. Properly made ​​and fitted can significantly reduce snoring and diminish the severity and symptoms of OSA. It is a non-invasive, painless method of treatment. Each appliance is custom-made for the patient. The appliance is made of soft and comfortable material, which limits the possibility of side effects of soft tissue, gums and teeth. The oral appliance is designed to enable yawning, swallowing, speaking and even drinking without removing it.
Oral appliance (Cracow modification )
www.sen-medix.pl