Snoring affects some 40 million Americans. An estimated 25 to 30 percent of adults are known to snore.
It often results from obstruction at the back of the mouth and/or nose. The striking of the soft palate and uvula
against the back wall of the throat results in the sound of snoring. This sound is further amplified in the
presence of enlarged tonsils and/or soft palate.
Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by episodes of breathlessness during sleep. Each apneic episode may
last up to twenty seconds and can recur hundreds of times each night, markedly disrupting sleep.
Symptoms include excessive daytime fatigue and loud snoring. The patient’s bed partner will often report
the breathing disruption. Morning headache and dry mouth may also be present.
Sleep apnea most often results from a significant blockage of the upper airway (Obstructive Sleep Apnea).
Untreated, this condition can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, congestive heart failure, and motor
vehicle accident four-fold. Studies of middle-aged adults find that up to ten percent of men and 5 percent of
women may have untreated obstructive sleep apnea.
Our Snoring and Sleep Apnea Division provides patients with a thorough evaluation and thoughtful analysis
of their sleep disturbance. Surgical treatments including procedures to eliminate nasal obstruction, surgery of
the soft palate, uvula, and/or tonsils are potential solutions for appropriate candidates.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a procedure wherein the soft palate and uvula are reduced in conjunction with
tonsillectomy. In-office surgery to reduce obstructing nasal turbinates is often successful in the management of
simple snoring and nasal congestion.
Our Sleep & Snoring Management Program is based on the latest principles and modalities of treatment.
As a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Dr. Manoj Kantu maintains a strong academic interest
in uncovering and managing all types of sleep disorders.
When indicated, Sleep Surgery can effectively stop snoring and night time breathing issues, restoring a good
night’s sleep.