The approach to addressing snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) hinges on two critical factors:
- The Source of Snoring: It's important to identify whether snoring primarily originates from the nose or the throat.
- Presence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Determining if you also have obstructive sleep apnea, and if so, the severity of the condition.
At ResMed, we offer solutions tailored to throat snorers, including those with varying degrees of sleep apnea. This encompasses mild to moderate OSA as well as more severe cases.
1. Throat Snorers without Sleep Apnea
If you've been tested for sleep apnea and your apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) score is less than 5, you fall into this category. If you're unsure about your AHI, it's strongly recommended to undergo a screening. Using the correct solution for your specific issue is crucial.
ResMed believes that one of the most effective treatments for throat snoring is a custom-made device. This device is designed to fit comfortably in your mouth, keeping your lower jaw positioned forward during sleep, which helps to keep your throat open. These devices are known by various names, but we refer to ours as a mandibular repositioning device (MRD), specifically Narval CC™*.
For individuals who snore primarily through their nose, MRDs may not be the suitable solution. Instead, you should explore options such as nasal sprays, nasal strips, chin straps, and more. Recommendations can be obtained from your country's sleep association.
2. Throat Snorers with Mild to Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea
When AHI levels fall between 5 and 30, ResMed offers both the Narval MRD and a comprehensive range of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy options. MRDs are a first-line treatment for snorers with mild to moderate OSA, and they have been clinically proven as an effective alternative to PAP therapy. Users often find oral appliances more comfortable, resulting in longer usage periods. This enhanced compliance makes them equally as effective as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy.
3. Throat Snorers with Severe OSA
For individuals with an AHI exceeding 30, PAP therapy is typically recommended as the primary treatment. There are various PAP therapy options, including Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP), CPAP, and bi-level therapy. ResMed offers a comprehensive selection of masks, devices, and accessories to enhance the comfort and non-intrusiveness of PAP therapy.
In cases where PAP therapy is not well-tolerated, an MRD may be prescribed by your sleep physician. Remarkably, even users with severe OSA who consistently wore the Narval CC MRD demonstrated significant reductions in their AHI levels, comparable to those with mild to moderate OSA.
Finding the right treatment for snoring and OSA depends on individual factors, with ResMed offering a variety of solutions to address these issues effectively.
Additionally, alternative treatment options for snoring include surgical procedures and radiofrequency treatments. Consulting with a healthcare professional is vital to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on your specific needs and condition.
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