Many of my patients ask me: “Is there a procedure to stop snoring?” Snoring affects so many things, from your quality of life to your health. It’s important to address snoring to help improve your sleep quality, alertness, and more. One possible solution to snoring or obstructive sleep apnea is the Pillar Procedure. Learn more about this snoring and obstructive sleep apnea treatment here.
What Are the Health Effects of Snoring and Sleep Apnea?
Besides bothering your bed partner or household members, snoring is often accompanied by obstructive sleep apnea. You may have sleep apnea if you wake up with headaches, have trouble concentrating during the day, or if you wake up gasping for breath at night.
What Is the Pillar Procedure?
The Pillar Procedure helps prevent snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea by propping up the soft palate. Snoring and some cases of sleep apnea occur when the soft palate collapses and is in contact with the tongue. As the person breathes, these two vibrate against each other, causing snoring. And sleep apnea occurs when this meeting of the soft palate and tongue temporarily obstructs air from entering the body.
The Pillar Procedure is minimally invasive and only requires local anesthesia. Local anesthesia will be placed in the soft palate at the back of the throat. Then, several rods (three to five) will be placed in the soft palate to help support the tissue.
Is the Pillar Procedure Painful?
Local anesthesia is used, so you will feel nothing during the procedure. Afterwards, you may experience a mildly sore throat. Over-the-counter pain meds should provide pain relief.
How Long Does the Pillar Procedure Last?
The Pillar Procedure are permanent. However, it may take a few days or weeks for the full benefits to manifest. Once the area has healed completely from the procedure, you can expect long-lasting results.
If you are ready to stop snoring or suspect you have sleep apnea, Dr. Fisher can perform an exam to determine whether the pillar procedure is right for you. Contact us using the link above. You can also click here to learn more about the pillar procedure.
