| What
is snoring and sleep apnoea?
Why
do we snore?
When the soft palate and tongue are relaxed during sleep,
the natural airway narrows. This may create vibrations of
the soft tissue in the throat, this is known as snoring.
The relaxed
jaw position causes the tongue (red) to fall back into
the throat and narrow and could possibly close the airway. |
|
The appliance keeps the lower
jaw forward (normal jaw position) and the airway open. |
What
is snoring?
For most of us, snoring is a sign of deep sleep. However,
for others it may signify a serious problem. Snoring is a
common problem for an estimated 60% of all men, and 40% of
all women over 60 years of age, as well as 10% of men, and
5% of women over 30 years of age. Many of them are unaware
they snore.
 |
As we get older
both men and women have an increasing tendency to snore.
______________ Men
______________ Women |
Time
to wake up Snoring may be a sign of sleep apnoea.
Sleep apnoea occurs when the airway completely collapses.
The airway becomes blocked and the air supply is temporarily
interrupted.
If the airway obstruction persists, the brain partially wakes
the person enabling them to clear their throat and breathe.
This cycle can re-occur repeatedly throughout the night.
|
