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Snoring is the result of the vibration happening in the upper airway which includes the throat, mouth and the nose. Due to blockages, turbulence is caused during respiration. While we breathe virtually the whole day, we only snore at night because our muscles become relaxed at sleeping time, which in turn leads to the collapse of these tissues. Because the muscles are in a relaxed state, they are incapable of preventing themselves from colliding.
Snoring basically starts from the nose down to the vocal chords. Recently, researchers have found out that the tongue also plays a role in causing and aggravating snoring.
Snoring is involuntary, so there's no use in trying to control it. There is no simple cure. However, it can be controlled through the use of various devices and techniques.
When snoring becomes too difficult for a common method to handle, it could be time to think about surgery as a means to deal with it. There are various surgical procedures to correct this sleeping problem but they do apply on a case to case basis.
Sometimes, a thorough evaluation of the physical and physiological aspects must be rendered before an otolaryngologist can come up with the most effective measures. Otolaryngologists are the specialists on problems related to the throat, mouth and the nose.
Another known treatment for snoring is the Tongue Suspension Procedure or Repose. This works by inserting a small screw under the tongue into the jaw. This way, the tongue will be prevented from falling back during sleep. While many report on its effectivity in controlling snoring, most physicians agrees that this method is thoroughly invasive and an irreversible option therefore many people end up shunning this method.
For those whose main cause of snoring is the nose, nasal surgery is the most likely solution. While it is considered, in general, a cosmetic type of surgery, few will deny that it actually works for problematic snoring. This method is also used on patients who are suffering from a deviated nasal septum. This doesn't only help the snorer during his sleep but can also add comfort to breathing during the day.
The LAUP or Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty is an advanced modification of the traditional treatment called Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP. This procedure works by cutting the uvula (which is the dangling part which more often than not causes the obstruction of the air passage) that is located at the rear part of the roof of the mouth. When the uvula has been determined to be the consistent source of problematic snoring, then this procedure is recommended.
Radio Frequency Tissue Ablation, also known as Samnoplasty, is a relatively new technique approved by the American Food and Drug Administration. This also basically removes parts of the uvula.
While there is not much data published on Coblation-Channeling, the method itself focuses on removing any tissue that obstructs the air passage by means of radio frequency. In some cases, tissues are fully removed when the situation demands it.
Surgery as treatment for snoring must be taken as the last resort when everything else fails. Before entertaining into as an option, be sure that you have had a complete evaluation of the actual causes of your condition. Keep in mind though that these kinds of procedures may not necessarily be covered by health insurance. However this gives you the flexibility to choose which professional can perform your desired procedure.
