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Millions of people suffer from habitual snoring. Often this can be caused by an anatomic variation in the upper airway. It may be a symptom of sleep apnea, a condition that can cause daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and loss of memory, personality changes and significant systemic pathology. Sleep apnea can be potentially a life threatening disorder.
Who Needs Treatment?
People who may benefit are those with severe snoring, chronic nasal obstruction, and the symptoms mentioned above. Treatment may be as simple as a weight reduction plan, an oral appliance, or include basic outpatient procedures done in the office under local anesthesia. For patients with severe sleep apnea, treatment may include orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaws.
The Following Areas Should Be Evaluated:
- Difficulty with nasal air intake
- Chronic snoring
- Daytime fatigue
- Loss of memory or concentration
- Bed partner intolerance
- Witnessed cessation of breathing during sleep
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