Snoring might be a common nighttime nuisance, but it can also be a sign of something far more serious — sleep apnea. This condition causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, which can disrupt oxygen flow and strain the body over time. Left untreated, sleep apnea doesn’t just rob you of rest; it can impact nearly every system in your body.
At Peak ENT Associates, we help patients uncover the root cause of their snoring and provide proven solutions for lasting relief. Here’s why you should take sleep apnea seriously and what options are available to help you breathe — and sleep — better.
1. The Hidden Dangers of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked (obstructive sleep apnea) or when the brain fails to send proper breathing signals (central sleep apnea). The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is often linked to soft tissue collapse in the throat during sleep.
When these pauses in breathing occur dozens or even hundreds of times a night, your body struggles to get enough oxygen. This can lead to:
- High blood pressure and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Daytime fatigue, memory problems, and reduced concentration.
- Weakened immune function, making you more susceptible to illness.
- Mood changes, irritability, and a higher risk of depression.
2. Why Snoring Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Not all snoring means sleep apnea, but persistent, loud snoring is a red flag — especially when accompanied by gasping, choking, or observed pauses in breathing. Many people dismiss snoring as harmless, but untreated sleep apnea can be life-threatening over time.
Your bed partner may notice symptoms before you do, so paying attention to their observations can be an important first step in seeking help.
3. Treatment Options: From Lifestyle Changes to Advanced Therapies
At Peak ENT Associates, we take a personalized approach to treating sleep apnea. Options include:
- Lifestyle adjustments – Weight management, sleeping on your side, and avoiding alcohol before bedtime can reduce symptoms for mild cases.
- CPAP therapy – A continuous positive airway pressure device keeps airways open during sleep and is highly effective for many patients.
- Oral appliances – Custom-fitted devices reposition the jaw and tongue to maintain airway flow, offering a comfortable alternative for some.
- Inspire® therapy – For patients who can’t tolerate CPAP, this FDA-approved implant stimulates the airway muscles to prevent collapse.
- Surgical solutions – In select cases, surgery can address structural causes of airway obstruction.
4. Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
A thorough evaluation is the first step toward relief. Our specialists may recommend:
- Home sleep testing – Convenient, in-home monitoring to detect breathing disruptions.
- In-office airway assessment – Using advanced imaging to understand what’s blocking your airflow.
With a clear diagnosis, we can tailor a treatment plan that addresses both the cause and the symptoms of your sleep apnea.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
Your health and quality of life depend on more than just the hours you sleep — they depend on the quality of your rest. If you snore regularly, feel tired despite a full night’s sleep, or have been told you stop breathing during the night, it’s time to take action.
Contact Peak ENT Associates today to schedule an evaluation and discover your path to better breathing, better sleep, and better health.