Snoring can be annoying for your partner, but snoring can also be a manifestation of OSAS (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome), a common condition associated with snoring and marked daytime fatigue.
OSAS can cause or exacerbate various life-threatening diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular diseases and has a significant negative impact on your private and professional life. Excessive fatigue and sleepiness during the day are also among the causes of serious (traffic) accidents.
The Oral, Maxillofacial and Facial Surgeon plays an important role in the multidisciplinary treatment of this condition. After all, he is the specialist in the field regarding the anatomy and function of your jaw system, which is known to play an essential role in the development of OSAS.
Not everyone who occasionally snores has OSAS (see also sleep apnoea). Before a treatment is initiated, a number of examinations must be performed, the most important of which is the sleep study (polysomnography). This examination is carried out at the sleep centre in persons whose complaints (snoring, respiratory arrest, sleepiness, etc.) may indicate OSAS.
OSAS is often caused in part by an abnormal jaw position: a sharply recessed lower jaw is often the culprit. This problem is visualised by the oral surgeon, possibly based on a scan of your face.
Your treating doctor will discuss the treatment options with you.
