Oregon Snoring
From LoveToKnow Sleep
Those looking for Oregon snoring solutions may be pleasantly surprised to discover that there are many resources available in the area. A nice selection of options is available whether you have a serious condition or whether your snore is a mere annoyance.
Oregon Health and Science University
Portland’s Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) is a wonderful starting point on your journey to find ways to stop snoring. The organization offers insight into the statistics and the problems associated with persistent nightly snores.
Snoring Statistics and Problems
The OHSU notes that an estimated 25 percent of all adults snore on a regular basis, and 45 percent snore on occasion. The university notes that snoring is more prevalent in males and people who are overweight.
Problems that can occur include the symptoms of sleep deprivation and serious health conditions. OHSU defines snoring as “obstructed breathing” and makes a point to add that a snore can by a symptom of another medical problem.
Social Ramifications
Oregon Health and Science University features a podcast that addresses possible social ramifications of persistent snores. The Snoring Can Be Harmful to Health and Relationships podcast explores the importance of taking the common snore seriously, both for your health and for your closest interpersonal relationships.
Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists
Among the most notable are the highly skilled ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists in the region who make Oregon snoring solutions much easier to find. These professionals can help those who have severe snore conditions or sleep apnea. The first step is to determine whether you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), hyponea or primary snoring.
Physical Causes
An ENT specialist can determine the specific physical causes of the snore, making diagnosis easier. Determining a source for the condition also helps to determine the best treatment approach.
Simple changes such as sleeping on your side can make a significant difference; but, in some instances, it is necessary to have medical interventions. Before seeking help from an ENT, you should determine if the visit is necessary through your dentist or your primary care physician.
Epworth Sleepiness Scale
The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a test developed by Dr. Murray Johns. The test is relatively simple, focusing on the patient’s tendency to doze off during difference situations. Simply rate each situation from 0 to 3, 0 for never dozing and 3 for high chance of dozing.
Diagnosis
Those who have serious snoring conditions should see an otolaryngologist. This professional specializes in nose and throat disorders. This individual examines:
- Uvula
- Soft palate
- Adenoids
- Nasal passage
- Throat muscles
- Adenoids
The examination is quite thorough. The otolaryngology doctor may use:
- Imaging studies
- Endoscope for the throat and nasal cavity
- Nasopharyngoscope to explore below the tongue and palate
Sleep Testing
Sleep testing may be necessary in some situations, especially if the sleep problem requires surgical interventions. Oregon snoring options include helpful laboratories and sleep centers that offer their services. Patients may be required to stay overnight attached to a polysomnograph, a device that measures breathing patterns during sleep.
Those requiring a sleep test can explore different options in Oregon:
- The Medford Sleep Center serves southern Oregon.
- Sleep Centers.org features a list of sleep centers in the state.
Derek S. Lipman MD
Derek S. Lipman, MD is the author of Stop Your Husband from Snoring published in 1990. This book is of great appeal to those seeking Oregon snoring solutions because the author is a native of the state. Dr. Lipman is an ENT specialist who has helped many people overcome snoring problems.
The book includes interesting information including:
- History of sleep apnea and snoring treatments
- Past remedies
- Modern treatments
- Details about how procedures are performed
- Bibliography for further reading
- Glossary for technical terms
- Test for the severity of the reader’s snore
Dr. Lipman’s book is interlaced with interesting historical trivia and humor. The book uses comics as a great source for entertainment and as a tool for making some of his points quite memorable.
Finding Oregon Snoring Specialists
Many professionals can help you overcome your sleep problem. Finding an Oregon snoring specialist requires a little research and some consideration. Some resources include:
- Dentists.com provides contact information for dentists in the state of Oregon.
- Locate a Doc allows its website visitors to search for ENT specialists by zip code.
- Health Grades has a generous list of Otolaryngology doctors and physicians.
Oregon Resources
Oregon snoring solutions include professionals who are well trained in their fields. Specialists like Dr. Lipman are dedicated to helping people overcome this sleep problem.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 341 times. This page was last modified 03:12, 5 March 2009.
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