Conditions / Snoring
Snoring
Snoring is often a sign that air isn't moving freely through the upper airway during sleep. The muscle tone of the tongue, soft palate, and throat matters as much as the anatomy.
What it is
Snoring is the sound of soft tissue vibrating as air moves through a partially narrowed airway. Causes range from nasal congestion to enlarged tonsils to tongue position during sleep.
Snoring is not the same as sleep apnea, but it can be on the same spectrum. Persistent loud snoring warrants a conversation with your doctor.
Common signs
- ·Loud or habitual snoring
- ·Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
- ·Daytime sleepiness despite adequate hours
- ·Mouth breathing during sleep
- ·Restless sleep / frequent waking
How myofunctional therapy may help
Educational, not diagnostic. Outcomes vary; results are not guaranteed.
Strengthen the tongue, soft palate, and upper-airway muscles through targeted exercises.
Retrain the tongue to rest in the high posture that keeps the airway more open.
Address mouth breathing that contributes to airway vibration.
What to expect
A typical program runs 3–6 months.
Some adults notice reduced snoring within the first 4–6 weeks.
For sleep apnea, therapy is part of a multi-disciplinary plan, not a substitute for CPAP or oral appliance therapy.