Managing terrible nights

People who snore loudly are often the target of bad jokes and middle of the night elbow thrusts; but snoring is no laughing matter. While loud disruptive snoring is at best a social problem that may strain relationships, for many men, women and even children, loud habitual snoring may signal a potentially life threatening disorder: obstructive sleep apnea(OSA).
Obstruction of the airway causes the heart rate to fall below normal with decreases in blood oxygen levels. The obstruction will not clear until blood oxygen levels fall low enough to trigger the brain to send a signal for a release of adrenaline to prevent suffocation. The airway obstruction is usually (but tragically not always) broken with a gasp for air and, due to the adrenaline release, an increased heart rate. Reduced blood oxygen levels during the night also causes the brain to send signals through the nervous system to protect vital organs, the heart and the brain.
There are many social and health consequences of snoring — some of which might hamper life to a great extent. Some non-medical treatments that may alleviate snoring include:
Weight loss: as little as 10 pounds may be enough to make a difference.
Change of sleeping position: because you tend to snore more when sleeping on your back, sleeping on your side may be helpful.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and heavy meals: especially within two hours of bedtime.
Avoid sedatives: which can relax your throat muscles and increase the tendency for airway obstruction related to snoring.
There are other treatment options, including the following:
Radio Frequency (RF) of the Soft Palate uses radio waves to shrink the tissue in the throat or tongue, thereby increasing the space in the throat and making airway obstruction less likely.
Laser-Assisted Uvuloplasty (LAUP) is a surgical procedure that removes the uvula and surrounding tissue to open the airway behind the palate. This procedure is generally used to relieve snoring and can be performed by an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with local or general anesthesia.
Unfortunately, even surgery is not always effective. If, in spite of all your efforts, snoring is still disrupting both your sleep and that of your partner, you might want to consider sleeping in separate bedrooms. There are many documented cases of couples with wonderful marriages who simply make time for intimate moments before turning in for the night.
If snoring is disrupting your life to that level, joining an online support group for people with sleep apnea or sleep disturbances may be helpful. This will not only allow you to relate to those with similar difficulties but will give you a way to find out what has worked for other people in your situation.
Good luck and sweet dreams!

The write up is compiled by Dr. Mohammad Azizur Rahman. E-mail: mohammadrahmandr@Gmail.com