What Is Sleep Apnea And How To Differentiate it From Snoring?

Occasional snoring is very normal, especially when you are suffering from a cold or when you have consumed alcohol before going to bed. It can also happen when you are sleep deprived and too tired. However, millions of people all over the world snore on a regular basis. So, if you snore on a daily basis, there is a possibility that like millions of others, you might be suffering from a sleep disorder that can significantly impact many different aspects of your life or it can just be a harmless case of sawing logs.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

As per a report by American Academy of Otolaryngology, almost 45% of the population of America snores occasionally, and one in every four adults is a chronic snorer. However, only 18 million people in the country suffer from sleep apnea that is linked to a variety of health problems, like heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Difference between Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Snoring and sleep apnea are two terms that are thought to be similar and people usually use these terms interchangeably. However, this is not true. While all the sufferers of sleep apnea snore, only some of the people who snore suffer from sleep apnea.

Snoring is nothing more than the sound which is caused due to vibration while breathing. This vibration can be a result of the airway partially blocked in nose, throat, or mouth. There are many different factors, like cold, sinus infection, alcohol, allergies, throat obstructions, etc. that can result in snoring.

Snoring is only a symptom of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can be a severe problem which results in multiple pauses in the breathing pattern while the sufferer is sleeping. These interruptions can result in interrupted sleep, disturbed sleep, or light sleep. This lack of proper sleep can result in a variety of health problems, like drowsiness, concentration problems, anxiety, and depression.

Snoring and Sleep apnea remedies

Even if your snoring is not due to sleep apnea, it can still be a major problem for your partner, the restfulness of your sleep, and ultimately your overall health. A sleep study is recommended to find out if you are suffering from sleep apnea. There are effective Sleep apnea remedies, like anti-snoring devices and products that are known to be very effective with this condition.

Now that you understand the difference between snoring and sleep apnea, take professional help to know whether yours is a case of normal snoring or apnea to find effective and lasting solutions. Bring changes in your lifestyle habits and take help of non-invasive treatment methods to get treated. However, if you are suffering from either of them for some time, do not hesitate to consult a doctor to get the best treatment.