Possible symptoms
- Loud, irregular snoring, often noticed by a partner
- Observed pauses in breathing during sleep
- Unrefreshing sleep, frequent waking at night
- Daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, morning headache
- Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
- Obstructed nasal breathing, especially at night
When an ENT assessment makes sense
An assessment is advisable when pauses in breathing are observed, when daytime sleepiness is pronounced, when snoring increases, or when high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease is present at the same time. In children, loud snoring, mouth breathing or restless sleep should also be examined.
The aim is to identify anatomical causes in the nose, throat and tongue base and to judge whether sleep diagnostics are needed.
How the examination works
After a conversation about sleep habits, daytime sleepiness, weight, alcohol and medication, the upper airway is examined.
This includes assessment of nasal breathing, the nasal septum, the turbinates, the palate, the tonsils and the throat, with endoscopy where needed. If sleep apnoea is suspected, referral for sleep diagnostics follows (polygraphy or polysomnography), because the diagnosis requires a sleep measurement.
Treatment options
The next steps depend on the findings and the severity. General measures are usually discussed first: weight reduction, sleep position, avoiding alcohol in the evening and treating obstructed nasal breathing.
Depending on the cause, conservative treatment, mandibular advancement devices in cooperation with dentistry, CPAP therapy through sleep medicine or — where there is a clear anatomical cause — surgery via a hospital can be considered. Which option fits is discussed individually and with an open outcome.