• Otorhynolaryngology examination
• Analysis of sleeping disturbances due to night-time breathing blockages
• Plastic surgery for relieving snoring and nocturnal breathing problems

Why does the snoring occur?

During sleep, the tension of the muscles of the soft palate is reduced so air transition through the nose is lowered. During inhalation, air travels through this narrow tunnel quicker, the pressure on the walls is subsequently lowered (Venturi effect), which leads to the closing of this tunnel. When air pressure is stopped, the soft tissues separate. The vibration of the tissue causes sound effects similar to the sound of wind instruments. Chronic snoring is a common problem. Various research has confirmed occasional snoring in 45% of adults and regular snoring in 25% of the population. Millions of families suffer every night due to disturbed sleep.

Is snoring dangerous?

In the USA, more than 100 million people snore, with similar statistics in other parts of the world. For most this is more a disturbance than a serious danger. Without treatment the condition gradually worsens. Even occasional snoring can be a sign of dangerous illness – breathing blockages during sleeping – OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome). Fortunately this is much rarer than snoring, in developed countries it is diagnosed in only 2 – 4 % of the population.

OSA patients are exposed to acute heart attacks during sleeping, during the day they are weak, chronically tired, often suddenly fall asleep, which is especially dangerous in traffic.

OSA occurs due to blockages of the upper breathing organs during sleeping. Loosened soft tissue in the throat blocks the airways completely and air cannot reach the lungs. Breathing is halted. The consequences are frequent awakenings and restlessness in bed. Diagnosis of the OSA can be determined with devices such as – polyregistrator or polysomnograph, which records the process of sleeping.

The device is adjusted in the evening before sleeping. It records sleeping, number and length of the episodes, when the patient stops breathing, heart beat frequency, oxygen concentration in the blood and the position of the body. The following day data may be transferred into the computer for analysis.

What are the treatment options?

Conservative treatment

Lowering body weight, avoiding smoking, alcohol consumption, etc.

Clinical treatment of snoring and breathing blockage

The mucous membrane mouth and throat is anaesthetized locally. The doctor later also anaesthetizes deeper tissues.

A special probe is used to reach the tissue in the soft palate and eliminates part of it with different methods of radio-frequency energy.

The patient can return home the same day soon after the treatment and has to follow additional instructions regarding food and use of medicines.