Snoring can sometimes be an indicator of a more serious sleep disorder. Dr. Robert Sonnenburg, otolaryngologist with BayCare Clinic Ear, Nose & Throat, recently participated in a Facebook LIVE question and answer session where he discussed snoring, sleep disorders and treatment options available for patients.
“When patients come in and snoring is the main complaint I’m always kind of thinking in my own mind, ‘ok, does this sound like regular snoring – kind of a nuisance or irritation or is this a sign of something more serious like obstructive sleep apnea?’”
Approximately 70 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders like insomnia, or excessive sleepiness associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
Dr. Sonnenburg was the first provider in the region to offer Inspire therapy, an alternative treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea who are intolerant of CPAP.
During the video, Dr. Sonnenburg reviews the STOP BANG questionnaire to help determine if your snoring or sleep symptoms may be related to obstructive sleep apnea. He also reviews how Inspire therapy works and discusses other treatment options available for patients.