ENT For Snoring | ENT Snoring Treatment

What can an ENT do for snoring?

ENT doctors, also known as otolaryngologists, are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the ears, nose, throat, and related structures in the head and neck. Sometimes, snoring is caused by medical conditions located in these areas.

Common Causes of Snoring Treated by ENTs:

Nose and sinus irritation and inflammation from allergies is a common culprit for ENT conditions that contribute to snoring. Our ENT doctors can often diagnose allergy-related problems by looking for symptoms that follow along with peak allergy seasons. In addition, allergy testing is also available and recommended for those struggling with recurrent symptoms without a clear allergen to trace it back to.

Snoring could also be a symptom of an anatomical condition. We offer surgical solutions (including sinus and nasal surgery) for those looking to address these root issues, which can include:

• Nasal Polyps: Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nose or sinuses due to long-term inflammation.  If the polyps block the nasal passages, people may breathe through their mouths instead during sleep, which can create the vibrations associated with snoring.
• Deviated Nasal Septum: A deviated nasal septum, which is a displacement of the thin wall separating the nasal passages, can obstruct airflow and contribute to snoring.
  
• Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids: Enlarged tonsils or adenoids can partially block the airway, causing vibrations that result in snoring.
• Anatomical Abnormalities: Certain anatomical abnormalities, such as a long uvula (the tissue hanging from the soft palate), a large tongue, or a narrow airway, can contribute to snoring.

In most cases, our ENT doctors will pursue non-surgical treatments to help manage symptoms prior to recommending surgical solutions for any of these conditions. Medications like steroid sprays and saline rinses and environmental adjustments to account for irritants are our first defense against nasal inflammation and congestion.

Snoring could also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition called sleep apnea. This is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep.

Sleep apnea occurs because your airway gets blocked during sleep (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) or because your brain forgets to send the signals that tell your body to breathe (Central Sleep Apnea). We offer different treatment options for sleep apnea, depending on the type and severity of your case.

Other Causes of Snoring

In some cases, snoring is not related to an ENT condition; your doctor will point you in the direction of the appropriate health professional if they discard an ENT diagnosis. Some common causes include:

• Excess Weight: Excess weight or obesity can lead to the accumulation of fatty tissue around the upper airway, narrowing the airway and causing snoring.
• Alcohol and Sedative Consumption: Consuming alcohol or sedatives before bedtime can relax the muscles in the throat, increasing the likelihood of snoring.

ENT Diagnostic Procedures For Snoring

To accurately diagnose the cause of your snoring and develop an effective treatment plan, ENT specialists may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic procedures:

• Physical Examination: The ENT specialist will perform a thorough physical examination of your nose, throat, and mouth to identify any structural abnormalities or obstructions that may be contributing to your snoring.
• Sleep Study (Polysomnography): A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is a comprehensive overnight test that monitors your sleep patterns, breathing, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. This diagnostic tool can help identify sleep disorders like sleep apnea. It can be completed within a sleep lab setting or the home setting. Your ENT specialist can help decide which setting is best for your case.
• Endoscopy: An endoscopy involves inserting a small camera (endoscope) through the nose or mouth to examine the upper airway and identify any potential obstructions or abnormalities contributing to snoring.
• Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected as a potential cause of nasal congestion and snoring, the ENT specialist may recommend allergy testing to identify specific triggers and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

ENT Treatment For Snoring-Related Conditions

By understanding whether snoring is due to anatomical issues, allergies, or other factors, your ENT can recommend the most effective treatment plan. Treatment options include both surgical and non-surgical solutions, depending on the severity and type of the condition.The goal of treatment is to improve airflow by addressing the condition that is blocking your airway, and this will in turn help with your snoring.

ENT for Snoring in The Metro Atlanta Area

Chronic snoring could be a sign that something is blocking your airway. If you or a loved one are having trouble sleeping due to snoring, it might be time to seek help. Schedule a consultation with the ENT specialists at Norwest ENT. Appointments are available at our Georgia clinics in Buckhead/Atlanta, East Cobb, Canton, Cartersville, Marietta and Woodstock.