Laser as a new method for treating adult snoring

Snoring occurs during sleep when there is some difficulty breathing. Sometimes, breathing even stops, and this is called sleep apnoea. This common sleep disorder can affect your life in a number of ways. However, a new technique using an Erbium-Yag laser could provide a snoring solution.

When snoring becomes a problem

Snoring is a frequent cause of relationship problems. In many cases, people with this sleep disorder often feel drowsy and tired during the day, with difficulty concentrating and poor memory, and may suffer from irritability, morning headaches, hypertension and decreased libido or sexual appetite.

For a correct diagnosis, it is necessary for the patient to be examined by an otolaryngologist, who, with a simple and very fast examination test (fibro-endoscopy of the nose and throat), will find the obstruction that is causing the snoring.

The Erbium-Yag Laser – a new snoring solution

In many adults, the volume or intensity of snoring can be significantly reduced by a new technique which uses an Erbium-Yag laser. The treatment has been launched by otolaryngologists Dr Pedro Fortuny and Dr Jordi Coromina at the Institute of Photomedicine Of Teknon Medical Center.

How the procedure works

Through its application, there is a tightening and retraction of the mucosa of the soft tissue of the palate and uvula, extending the passage of air, or respiratory opening, thus avoiding vibration or noise. Erbium-Yag laser treatment is a fast, safe and painless solution to snoring, has no adverse effects and does not require anaesthesia. It is performed on an outpatient basis, and consists of applying the laser to the abutments, palate, uvula and tonsils.

The procedure is performed in four sessions, each of 15-20 minutes duration, with an interval of 15 days between each session. At the end of each, the patient returns immediately to normal activity.

This technique is applied exclusively in adults, because in children, the cause of snoring is different (an excessive enlargement of the adenoids and tonsils), and, therefore, the treatment required is different.

Also, not all adult patients are likely to improve with this technique. An otolaryngologist will confirm for which snoring cases Erbium-Yag laser treatment is appropriate.