Snoring affects many, with about 1 in 4 Singaporeans being loud habitual snorers. While infrequent snoring might not be cause for concern, persistent and loud snoring often signals sleep apnea. This serious condition can lead to a range of health complications if not properly addressed.
fghSnoring is the rattling, snorting or grumbling sound some people make during sleep. This noisy breathing occurs when airflow is obstructed or when relaxed tissues in your throat vibrate as you breathe. It is a common condition that can affect anyone, from infants to adults.
Snoring results from a partial obstruction in the airway, leading to vibrations as air passes through structures like the soft palate, tonsils, adenoids, and tongue. Several factors can contribute to this blockage, such as:
Several factors can increase your likelihood of snoring:
Snoring sounds vary widely among individuals, ranging from soft whistling and quiet vibrations to louder grumbling and snorting. However, snoring linked to obstructive sleep apnea often presents with additional accompanying symptoms like:
If these symptoms are present, it is crucial to consult an ENT specialist for a detailed evaluation.
During your consultation, your ENT doctor will thoroughly assess your symptoms by asking you and your sleep partner (if any) questions to understand the severity of the snoring. A physical examination of your nose, mouth and throat will also be performed.
To further investigate the cause of your snoring, your doctor might also require some tests:
Your ENT doctor may recommend various treatment options based on the severity of snoring, your health history and personal preference. These options can range from conservative approaches to surgical procedures.
These remedies primarily aim to improve airflow through the airway to reduce snoring. Common options include:
For severe snoring, surgery may be recommended to correct underlying structural issues contributing to the problem. Surgical options include:
Preventing or reducing snoring often involves simple lifestyle adjustments and changes to your sleep habits. Here are some effective strategies to try:
While snoring can be harmless, it is crucial to note any accompanying symptoms that might signal sleep apnea. These include disrupted breathing and gasping for air during sleep, as well as daytime sleepiness, fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Sleep apnea poses significant health risks. If you snore loudly, consult an ENT specialist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the most suitable treatment option for you.
While loud, frequent snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, it does not automatically mean you have the condition. However, if you or your sleep partner notice these symptoms accompanied by pauses in breathing or gasping for air during sleep, it is wise to consult an ENT doctor for a proper diagnosis. They can determine if your snoring is a sign of an underlying sleep disorder.
Yes, children and teenagers can suffer from chronic snoring. While less common than in adults, persistent snoring in younger individuals often signals underlying issues like enlarged tonsils or adenoids, allergies or obstructive sleep apnea, necessitating medical attention.
To choose the right snoring specialist in Singapore, first ensure they are accredited by the Ministry of Health. It is best to look for an ENT specialist who specifically focuses on snoring, sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders. Always consider their experience in this field and review available patient testimonials to gauge their expertise and patient care.
Senior Consultant ENT Specialist
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (ENT) (Singapore)
MRCS (Edinburgh, UK), FAMS (Otolaryngology)
Dr Barrie Tan is a dedicated ENT specialist with over 20 years of experience and a keen focus on hearing loss and cochlear implants, among others. Prior to setting up his own practice, Dr Tan was the Head of the ENT Department at the Singapore General Hospital (SGH) – the largest ENT department in Singapore – as well as the Director of the Centre for Hearing and Ear Implants at SGH.
Dr Tan was a President’s Scholar and completed his subspeciality Fellowship in Otology, Hearing Implant, Neurotology and Skull Base Surgery at the Ear Science Institute in Australia. Today, Dr Tan remains actively involved in the ENT fraternity, holding several leadership positions and being engaged in the nurturing of the next generation of ENT surgeons. He has organized numerous ENT conferences and continues to devote his time towards meaningful volunteer work and medical missions.
