Snoring is a noisy inspiratory sound produced by vibration and partial airway obstruction in the pharynx. One cause is vibration of the soft palate. It can lead to disrupted sleep, daytime tiredness and poor concentration – both for the person who snores and anyone sleeping close by.
Conservative treatments involve lifestyle changes, including weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, stopping smoking and sleep position training. Physical appliances (such as dental or oral devices) have also been used to maintain normal airflow dynamics during sleep. Procedures available for pharyngeal airway obstruction include laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP).