Snoring

Question 1

Management

Answer 1

If abnormal, refer to a sleep laboratory for assessment and management of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and other abnormalities.

If functional, give the following advice to consider.

•Treat nasal congestion (inc. hayfever).
•Obtain and maintain ideal weight.
•Avoid drugs (e.g. sedatives, hypnotics, excessive alcohol and smoking).
•Try to sleep on your side.
•Avoid sleeping on the back. If you tend to roll onto your back at night, consider sewing tennis or ping-pong balls on back of nightwear or wear bra (with tennis balls) back to front.
•Keep neck extended with a soft collar at night for neck problems.
•Provide partner with appropriate ear plugs.
•Consider a trial of an intranasal device such as the
Breathing Wonder—intranasal plastic insert.
pharmacist can advise you about the range of such
devices.