Did you know almost half of adults snore occasionally, and a quarter snore compulsively? For most snoring is simply an annoying distraction when trying to sleep, but for others it can have more serious implications. Luckily, the Vein and Skin Clinic offer specialised snoring treatments, allowing you, and your partner, to finally get a good night’s sleep.
The main cause of snoring is our body relaxing during sleep. Our airways narrow when we are more relaxed and lying down. This causes an obstruction of airflow in the passageway at the back of our mouths.
The back of our mouths is where our tongue and throat meet the soft tissue of the palate and uvula. As our airways narrow, the pressure increases, and this higher pressure is enough to vibrate the soft tissue surrounding it. It is this vibration that manifests itself as snoring.
What’s so bad about snoring?
Why do we snore?
Possible the worst thing about snoring is the fact it directly affects the health of others. Sleep deprivation can lead to a long list of medical problems, and every year thousands of accidents, both at home, in the workplace and on the roads, are caused by lack of sleep. Not to mention the fact that your partner might literally kill you for snoring!
It is estimated that around one in four people who snore are suffering from the condition known as Sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is dangerous disorder wherein a person repeatedly stops and starts breathing while sleeping. Sleep apnea can have serious short and long term health risks if left untreated, including high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.
How the Vein and Skin Clinic can help?
Dr Henryk Poczwa at the Vein and Skin Clinic has performed numerous successful treatments to combat snoring over the last 10 years. He was one of the first to pioneer a procedure in New Zealand under the auspices of an ENT specialist.
Our snoring treatment utilises radiofrequency waves emitted from an Ellman Surgitron to improve nasal air flow and stop the soft palate from flapping excessively. Radiowave treatment performed at the Vein and Skin Clinic causes tissue tightening and shrinkage to help reduce snoring.
Low temperature radio frequency energy is delivered to the soft palate muscles. This induces the palate to stiffen by scarring the palatal muscles. The mucosal surface over the palate is normally unaffected.
Under local anaesthetic (like a dental anaesthetic), the operation is largely painless, and takes around 30 minutes. Following the minor operation, one can carry on normal activities, such as working, or eating, with only a few restrictions.
Some people may need an additional procedure where nasal obstruction is contributing to the snoring. Using the same apparatus, the inside of the nose can also be treated with radiowave surgery.
Follow up is recommended at 6-8 weeks. After follow up, further treatment can be carried out if necessary.
Will I stop snoring for good?
Snoring is a complex problem and often requires treatment from a combination of sources. Because snoring is a multi-factorial medical condition, repeat or additional operations may be required as part of a snoring management plan.
Unfortunately only a few patients achieve 100% control of snoring, although the majority of patients do have useful improvement. At present there is no single operation or device that is guaranteed to ‘cure’ a snorer.
Sometimes a combination team approach gives the best outcome. This may include using orally inserted devices; having a consultation with an ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Specialist, as well as having radiowave treatment to tighten the palate and improve nasal airways.
Call Vein and Skin today for a good night’s sleep
Snoring is subject to jokes and ridicule, but for those affected by it, it’s no laughing matter. Our proven snoring treatments can help you (and your loved ones) finally get a good night’s sleep. Feel refreshed in the morning instead of exhausted, and go about your day with renewed energy you didn’t know you had.
Contact us today with any questions you may have about our snoring treatments. Our friendly and experienced staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
