Snoring and sleep apnoea

There are several types of sleep apnoea, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This type of apnoea occurs when your throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep. Although it is a common condition, is may have serious health consequences. A noticeable sign of OSA is snoring, but is it usually diagnosed by a sleep study which can be arranged by your GP.

Most cases are managed with lifestyle and diet modifications along with other conservative measures, including oral appliances and tongue retaining devices. A small group would benefit from consulting the ENT specialist to manage the condition surgically. 

If you are have, or may have the following, an ENT consultation may be warranted:

- Obstructing nasal polyps

- Grossly deformed nasal septum and obstructing turbinates

- Enlarged tonsils and or adenoids