Peartree Dental Care
Dr. Michael Zhou

5 Things to Know About Snoring and Sleep Apnea

December 10, 2024
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Posted By: Dr. Michael Zhou

Everyone deserves a restful sleep. If you snore or suffer with sleep apnea, there are treatment options available.  At Peartree in Elliot City, MD, Dr. Michael Zhou specializes in effective treatments for snoring and sleep apnea that will help you achieve a night of more restful sleep.  Contact his office at (410) 750-2599 to schedule your consultation today.

1. Causes of Snoring

Snoring is the unwelcome, harsh, brash, and grating sounds that occur while someone is sleeping. It is caused by air flowing past relaxed tissues in your throat, causing the tissues to vibrate as you inhale and exhale. Almost everyone snores or has snored at some time. But, for some individuals, snoring is a chronic condition. Understanding some of the reasons for snoring may make for a better night of sleep. Some of those reasons include:

  • Older age
  • Sinus issues or problems with the sinus passages
  • Use of alcohol
  • Excessive weight
  • Sleeping position

2. Causes for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a disorder that occurs when the breathing of an individual is interrupted. If left untreated, sleep apnea could have long-term effects. Some of those issues include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • Depression
  • The inability to function during daily activities
  • Falling asleep while driving or other activities that require focus

3. Key Information About Sleep Apnea

  • Sleep apnea can leave individuals drained, lethargic, and despondent. Some other key points about sleep apnea include:
  • More than 22 million Americans succumb to some form of sleep apnea.
  • While sleep apnea includes chronic snoring, many individuals may wake up choking, gasping for air, endure headaches, and become increasingly irritable.
  • Many individuals who suffer from sleep apnea do not snore at all.
  • Sleep apnea affects more men than women.
  • While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy may help with sleep apnea, lifestyle changes may help, too.
  • Snoring is often associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, not all individuals who snore have OSA.

4.  Key Information about Snoring

Snoring is truly irritating for individuals on the receiving end of it. It can hinder the sleep others are trying to get, and can even be the source of arguments. Some other interesting facts about snoring include:

  • Snoring is relatively common but may indicate other issues or disorders.
  • Although snoring does not necessarily indicate OSA, it can lead to it.
  • Approximately 90 million Americans snore.
  • Snoring is heredity. In 70% of cases, a snorer had a family member who snores or snored.
  • Sleepiness, stress, being overweight, and consumption of alcohol can exaggerate snoring.
  • Snoring can be as loud as 100 decibels.
  • Generally, snoring occurs during a night of deep sleep.
  • The louder you snore, the better the chance you are overweight.

5. Why Choose Peartree Dental for Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment

Dr. Zhou of Peartree Dental is committed to helping patients live their best lives. He stays abreast of the most innovative techniques and methods to remedy snoring and sleep apnea. He understands that patients need a night of restful sleep. To begin your treatment plan with Dr. Zhou:

  • You will have a consultation, discussing your problems with getting a sound sleep.
  • Zhou will give you a comprehensive evaluation and check your head, neck, throat and nasal passages for indications of problems.
  • After a discussion of a treatment plan has taken place, you will be offered a series of recommendations to alleviate your snoring -sleep apnea.
  • Zhou will perform the discussed treatment and provide directives for recovery.
  • You may receive an oral device to alleviate your snoring-sleep apnea.
  • You may also receive a mildly invasive or intricate procedure.
  • You will be encouraged to follow up with Dr. Zhou after your procedure, ensuring you are getting better sleep.

Let Peartree Help You Receive the Restful Sleep You Deserve

You deserve to sleep soundly, and Dr. Zhou is ready to help you achieve such. Contact Peartree Dental today in Ellicott City, MD, for your snoring and sleep apnea. Reach out to us online or by dialing (410) 750-2599.

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