Loud Snoring and Breathing Issues During Sleep

Sleep apnea with loud snoring?

Hello doctor, I often have difficulty breathing and snore loudly when I sleep on my stomach or lie down.
I am 175 cm tall and weigh 62 kg, so it seems that these symptoms are not caused by obesity.
I would like to ask what the issue might be and how to improve it.
Should I seek assistance from an otolaryngologist? Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/05

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

It is recommended to undergo a clinical examination at the outpatient department, as a sleep study may be necessary for a comprehensive assessment.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2017/02/05

More Info

Loud snoring and breathing difficulties during sleep can be indicative of several underlying issues, and it's important to address these symptoms as they can significantly impact your overall health and quality of life. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to sleep apnea, a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep.
Sleep apnea can occur in individuals of various body types, not just those who are overweight. In fact, there are different types of sleep apnea, with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) being the most common. OSA occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, leading to a blockage of the airway. This can result in loud snoring, gasping for air, and frequent awakenings throughout the night. Other factors that can contribute to OSA include anatomical features such as a thick neck, enlarged tonsils, or a recessed jaw.

Given your height and weight, it is possible that other factors, such as nasal congestion or anatomical variations, could be contributing to your symptoms. For instance, if you have allergies or sinus issues, these could lead to nasal obstruction, making it difficult to breathe comfortably while sleeping. Additionally, sleeping positions can also play a role; sleeping on your back can exacerbate snoring and breathing difficulties.

To address your concerns, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Specialist: It would be wise to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a sleep medicine physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor your breathing patterns during sleep.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms. For example, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime can reduce muscle relaxation in the throat. Additionally, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment can improve sleep quality.

3. Sleep Position: Experimenting with different sleep positions may also help. Sleeping on your side rather than your back can reduce snoring and improve airflow. There are specialized pillows designed to encourage side sleeping.

4. Weight Management: While your current weight may not be classified as overweight, maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can still be beneficial for overall health and may help reduce symptoms.

5. Nasal Breathing Aids: If nasal congestion is an issue, consider using saline nasal sprays, nasal strips, or a humidifier in your bedroom to improve airflow through your nasal passages.

6. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): If diagnosed with sleep apnea, a CPAP machine may be recommended. This device delivers a continuous stream of air to keep your airway open during sleep.

7. Surgical Options: In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to correct anatomical issues contributing to sleep apnea. This would be discussed with your ENT specialist if deemed appropriate.

In summary, loud snoring and breathing difficulties during sleep are symptoms that should not be ignored. Consulting a healthcare professional, particularly an ENT or sleep specialist, is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. By addressing these issues, you can improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.

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