Snoring Solutions
If you snore, make sure you verify that you don’t have SDB or OSA by completing an overnight sleep study. To book an in-home sleep study online, click here.
Once you have ruled out SDB and OSA, the following are a few options that may help reduce the annoyance of snoring.
Theravent
Theravent Advanced Snoring Therapy is a disposable, single-use device used to treat snoring. The Theravent uses small, one-way valves contained in an adhesive frame that is placed over the nostrils. As the you inhale, the valves open to allow air in, and as you exhale, the valves partially close to create a back pressure, which splints the nasal passages open. Theravent doesn’t create the same pressure as a CPAP device would, therefore it is not recommended for those with OSA. It is available in 3 strengths (Lite, Reguar and Max), each containing a different level of resistance.
Theravent is not recommended for use with a cold, sinus, or ear infection, or perforated eardrum, or for those with severe breathing problems (including asthma or emphysema) or severe heart problems, or for those with very low blood pressure.
Aveo TSD
The Aveo TSD is designed to treat snoring by keeping your tongue slightly outside of the mouth through the night. TSD stands for “tongue stabilizing device”, so by keeping the tongue in a forward position, it cannot fall back into the throat and cause snoring.
The Aveo TSD si essentially a bulb that suctions onto the end of your tongue. It has small protrusions positioned back from the end of the device that sit in front of the teeth. The tongue will sit outside of the mouth throughout the night.
Hypersalivation is common when first using this device, but typically resolves with time. It can take some time to get the right technique to keep the bulb in place throughout the night.
CPAP
Another way of controlling snoring is through Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP. CPAP is the gold standard for treatment of sleep disordered breathing, particularly with obstructive sleep apnea; however, CPAP is also very effective in controlling snoring.
CPAP works by delivering a constant flow of air through a mask sealed over the nose and/or mouth to keep the throat splinted open throughout the night. Preventing the throat from narrowing prevents the tissues in the throat from vibrating, thus eliminating the noise caused by snoring.
Sinus Solutions
If you have chronic congestion, seasonal allergies, or the occasional head cold, options that help open your nasal passages can reduce snoring and improve sleep.
Sinus Cones
Sinus cones are an effective way of preventing nasal passage collapse during sleep, and even during exercise. They can be used for long term control of nasal valve collapse. They safely insert into the nostrils, gently dilating the nasal passages and leading to improved nasal airflow. Sinus Cones are manufactured from hypoallergenic materials and come in small, medium and large sizes. With care, they will last about 3 months.
NeilMed Sinus Rinse
The human nose acts as the body’s natural humidifier, heater and filter. Those with medical conditions such as asthma or allergies, or those exposed to dust, mold or smoke regularly may develop nasal congestion. If left untreated, this can eventually lead to chronic issues such as headaches, post nasal drip and congestion.
NeilMed Sinus Rinse is a great way to flush the irritants out of the nose and hydrate the nasal linings. When used daily, it’s a great way to help prevent colds, clean out allergens and take care of your main airway filter. By using the Nettipot or Sinus Rinse squeeze bottle, you will “flush” any irritants, mucus, dust, etc. from your sinuses using a saline solution. Pre-mixed packages of sodium/bicoarbonate mixed with distilled water allow a natural means of clearing your sinuses. Can be used daily to keep sinuses clear.
The staff at the Snore Shop are trained to help you pick the right solution for your needs. Call us for more information.
STOP SNORING NATURALLY
For those who would like to stop snoring but are hesitant to seek medical treatment, there are several natural options available. Solutions involve adopting an overall healthier lifestyle by quitting smoking, losing weight and developing a healthy sleep routine. Other natural remedies such as sleeping on your side, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol/sedatives and getting moderate exercise can make immediate differences in your sleeping experience.
SURGERY
For those with severe snoring that is not helped by lifestyle modification or other anti-snoring devices, surgery may be an option. Your doctor can refer you to an ENT surgeon for evaluation to determine what procedures you may be a candidate for. Common procedures include using radio frequency energy, removing nasal polyps, correcting a deviated septum, inserting palate implants and performing a uvulectomy. Surgeries involving the upper and/or lower jaw are also possible.
NOTE: Surgery may not be a complete cure to the problem and many patients report still needing anti-snoring devices after surgery.
* doshi, r., westbrook, p. sleep diagnosis and therapy 2012; 7(4) : 1-5.