Snoring: When to Seek Medical Help for Sleep Issues

Severe snoring?

A family member (69-year-old mother-in-law) snores very loudly during sleep, and it is almost constant throughout the night.
Upon waking, she feels her throat is quite dry or experiences pain and discomfort.
She wants to seek medical attention for improvement but is unsure which specialty to visit.

Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/07/14

Dr. Wang Zhenyang reply Psychiatry

Thank you for your message! Regarding the issue of snoring during sleep, you can seek assistance from a hospital that has a specialized sleep clinic or sleep center.
Through a collaborative consultation with various specialists, you can find the most suitable treatment approach.
Dr.
Wang Zhenyang

Reply Date: 2009/07/14

More Info

Snoring is a common issue that can affect not only the person who snores but also their sleep partners and family members. In your case, your mother-in-law, who is 69 years old, experiences loud snoring during sleep and wakes up with a dry or sore throat. These symptoms can indicate a potential underlying condition, and it is wise to seek medical advice.

When to Seek Medical Help
1. Persistent Snoring: If snoring is loud and frequent, it may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to fragmented sleep and decreased oxygen levels in the blood, which can have serious health implications.

2. Daytime Symptoms: If your mother-in-law feels excessively sleepy during the day, has difficulty concentrating, or experiences mood changes, these could be signs of sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.

3. Physical Symptoms: Waking up with a dry or sore throat can indicate that she is breathing through her mouth while sleeping, which is often a result of airway obstruction. This can lead to discomfort and may require medical evaluation.

Which Specialist to See
For the symptoms described, it is advisable to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist or an Otolaryngologist. These specialists can evaluate the anatomy of the airway and determine if there are any obstructions, such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids, that may be contributing to the snoring.

Additionally, a sleep medicine specialist may also be consulted. They can conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor her sleep patterns, breathing, and oxygen levels throughout the night.

Potential Treatments
1. Lifestyle Changes: Encourage her to maintain a healthy weight, as obesity can exacerbate snoring and sleep apnea. Additionally, sleeping on her side rather than her back can help reduce snoring.

2. Nasal Strips or Oral Appliances: Over-the-counter nasal strips can help open nasal passages, while dental devices can reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.

3. 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 the airway open during sleep.

4. Surgery: In some cases, surgical options may be considered to remove obstructions in the airway, such as tonsillectomy or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP).

Conclusion
Given your mother-in-law's symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly. Snoring can be more than just a nuisance; it can indicate serious health issues that require attention. By consulting the appropriate specialists, you can help her find relief and improve her overall sleep quality. Encourage her to discuss her symptoms openly with the doctor, as this will aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

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