Dangers of Snoring
May 20, 2009
Snoring Defined: “vibrating noise coming from oropharyngeal structures that are most notably the vibration of the soft palate, uvula and pharygeal walls as a result of the collapse of the airway.” Dr. Ronald S. Prehn
The Danger of snoring is the last few words of the definition “as a result of the collapse of the airway.” There are several principles of flow dynamics at play in this dynamic process, but the one to understand is the Bernoulli’s principle.
“As the speed of a moving fluid (liquid or gas) increases, the pressure within the fluid decreases.” Wikipedia
Like a shower curtain that collapses into you (from decrease pressure) as you turn on the shower (increased velocity).
Therefore the dangers of snoring are related to the fact that snoring may be an early indication of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The following conditions are known to either be caused by OSA or aggravated by OSA:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Cardiac hypertension
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Loss of concentration
- Weight gain
- Acid reflux
- Bruxing (grinding of teeth)
- Sleepiness and drossiness leading to car accidents
Q: How do you know if you are at risk for these medical problems?
A: Need an evaluation by a Dental Sleep Specialist
