Snoring vs. Sleep Apnea: How to Tell the Difference
Snoring can be disruptive, for you and anyone trying to sleep nearby.
But sometimes, it’s more than just an annoyance. In certain cases, snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, a serious condition that affects your breathing throughout the night. At Goehring Dental in Austin, TX we see patients all the time who aren’t sure if their snoring is harmless or something more. Here’s how to tell the difference, and when it’s time to take action.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring happens when air flows past relaxed tissues in your throat, causing them to vibrate as you breathe. A few common causes include:
Nasal congestion or allergies
Sleeping on your back
Being overweight
Alcohol use before bed
Occasional snoring may not be a big deal, but frequent or loud snoring that disrupts sleep can signal something more serious.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the airway becomes blocked, often by soft tissues in the throat.
Unlike simple snoring, sleep apnea deprives your body of oxygen and interrupts your sleep cycles. Over time, it can increase your risk for:
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Stroke
Type 2 diabetes
Chronic fatigue
Not sure which you might be dealing with? Here’s a quick comparison:
Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea
If you’re not sure whether it’s “just snoring,” watch for these warning signs:
Waking up gasping or choking
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
Irritability or difficulty concentrating
If these sound familiar, it may be time for a sleep apnea evaluation.
How We Can Help with Snoring & Sleep Apnea
At Goehring Dental, we offer NightLase® treatment, a gentle, non-invasive laser therapy that reduces snoring and helps open the airway. Unlike other treatments, NightLase® usually does not require anesthesia, making it a comfortable and pain-free experience for patients.
Ready to take the first step towards better sleep?
Snoring may be a nuisance, but sleep apnea is a serious health concern. The good news? Both are treatable! Contact Goehring Dental today to explore personalized treatment options to help you breathe easier, snore less, and finally feel rested.
Schedule a consultation today by giving us a call at (512) 892-8822 or contact us by filling out the form below. Together, we can make restless nights and snoring a thing of the past!
