Sleep Issues: When to Consult a Neurologist for Snoring

Father's Sleep Issues 2

Hello Doctor, thank you for your response.
My father does snore at night, and it happens quite frequently (sometimes it lasts longer, and sometimes it's shorter).
If we want to have this checked, would you recommend seeing a neurologist?

Mr. Zhu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/28

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
Zhu,
Your father belongs to a high-risk group for moderate to severe COVID-19.
Given the current tight situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is advisable to wait until the situation stabilizes before going to the hospital for examinations.
Regarding the sleep center: During various polysomnographic tests, patients are asked to sleep as normally as possible in the sleep study room.
The equipment will record brain waves, eye movements, muscle activity, heart rate, respiration, and blood oxygen levels.
However, due to the pandemic, most sleep centers are temporarily providing limited services.
You may also consider using a smartwatch with blood oxygen monitoring capabilities, such as the Apple S6 or S7, for sleep and oxygen level tracking.
I recommend that your father first improve his sleep hygiene by avoiding naps during the day, refraining from drinking coffee outside of the morning hours, and avoiding smoking and alcohol, as both can lead to fragmented sleep.
It is also advisable to keep distracting items, such as televisions, out of the bedroom, and to maintain a dark and quiet sleeping environment.
He should aim to keep a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends.
Additionally, he should avoid exercising or eating large meals within 2-3 hours before bedtime to ensure better sleep quality.
If there are related concerns, I suggest consulting with a physician at a sleep medicine center (which may include specialists from neurology, psychiatry, pulmonary medicine, and otolaryngology) to discuss examinations and treatment options.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out for further discussion on related issues.
Wishing you and your father good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi
Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2022/04/28

More Info

When it comes to sleep issues, particularly snoring, it's important to understand the underlying causes and when to seek medical advice. Snoring can be a common occurrence, but it may also indicate more serious health conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This is a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing and poor sleep quality.
If your father is experiencing frequent snoring, especially if it is loud and accompanied by gasping or choking sounds, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. While a neurologist specializes in disorders of the nervous system, snoring and sleep-related breathing disorders are typically evaluated by a sleep specialist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. These specialists can conduct a thorough assessment, which may include a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor his sleep patterns, breathing, and oxygen levels during sleep.

In addition to snoring, other symptoms that may warrant a consultation include excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, or a history of high blood pressure. These symptoms can be indicative of sleep apnea, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, including cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and increased risk of accidents due to drowsiness.

When considering whether to see a neurologist, it’s essential to evaluate the specific symptoms your father is experiencing. If he has additional neurological symptoms, such as headaches, memory problems, or changes in coordination, a neurologist may be appropriate. However, for snoring and sleep disturbances, starting with a sleep specialist or an ENT doctor is usually the best course of action.

In the meantime, there are several lifestyle changes that can help reduce snoring. These include:
1. Weight Management: Excess weight, especially around the neck, can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. Encouraging a healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage weight.

2. Sleep Position: Sleeping on the back can exacerbate snoring. Encouraging your father to sleep on his side may help keep the airway open.

3. Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives: These substances can relax the throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of snoring. It’s advisable to avoid them, especially close to bedtime.

4. Establishing a Sleep Routine: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can improve overall sleep quality and reduce snoring.

5. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help keep the throat tissues from becoming sticky, which can contribute to snoring.

6. Nasal Strips or Humidifiers: If nasal congestion is a factor, using nasal strips or a humidifier can help improve airflow and reduce snoring.

In conclusion, while snoring can be a benign issue, it can also signal more serious health concerns. Consulting a sleep specialist or an ENT doctor is a prudent step if your father’s snoring is frequent and disruptive. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate interventions to improve his sleep quality and overall health.

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