Interventions

Interventions

• behaviour and lifestyle modification options include:
  • encourage patient to lose weight
  • stop smoking
  • omit sedative drugs if possible
  • reduce his alcohol intake
  • use of earplugs for partner
  • if the snoring is postural then could try "postural training": pillows or specific products (modern variants of the "tennis ball in a sock sewn to the back of a pyjama shirt") - these interventions are successful in some cases where the snoring is postural e.g. when patient is supine
• medical intervention options include:
  • treatment of any nasal congestion
    • decongestant and steroid nasal sprays
  • seek specialist opinion if initial measures unsuccessful
    • ENT management options include uvulo-palatopharyngoplasty and radiofrequency stiffening of the soft palate; if large tonsils then may consider tonsillectomy
    • if patient may have "obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome" (combination of obstructive sleep apnoea and excessive daytime sleepiness) then refer him to a sleep unit for overnight assessment and possible treatment with continuous positive airway pressure
    • if dentition is adequate then a mandibular advancement device can help snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnoea - best assessed by a dentist or oral surgeon.

Reference:

1. Parker RJ et al. 10-minute consultation.Snoring.BMJ 2005;331:1063.