behaviour and lifestyle modification options include:
encourage patient to lose weight
stop smoking
omit sedative drugs if possible
reduce his alcohol intake
use of earplugs for partner
if the snoring is postural then could try "postural training": pillows or specific products (modern variants of the "tennis ball in a sock sewn to the back of a pyjama shirt") - these interventions are successful in some cases where the snoring is postural e.g. when patient is supine
medical intervention options include:
treatment of any nasal congestion
decongestant and steroid nasal sprays
seek specialist opinion if initial measures unsuccessful
ENT management options include uvu-lopalatopharyngoplasty and radiofrequency stiffening of the soft palate; if large tonsils then may consider tonsillectomy
if patient may have "obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome" (combination of obstructive sleep apnoea and excessive daytime sleepiness) then refer him to a sleep unit for overnight assessment and possible treatment with continuous positive airway pressure
if dentition is adequate then a mandibular advancement device can help snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnoea - best assessed by a dentist or oral surgeon
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