Snoring can be a serious problem for some sleepers as well as their partners. Typically, most insurance companies will not cover medical procedures to help people stop snoring. These are almost always considered elective. However, anyone who has to deal with a snorer would disagree wholeheartedly!
Generally surgical procedures for snoring are only considered in the direst of cases. To determine a patient’s need, they will need to consult with an ear, nose and throat doctor. In many cases, the doctor will recommend the patient undergo a sleep study. This is the best way to determine how serious the problem is. If the results suggest that surgery is needed, there are several medical procedures they may choose from.
A common procedure used to remedy snoring is uvulopalatoharvngoplasty or UPPP. This procedure features the removal of extra tissue. This tissue can be found in the tonsils, adenoids, pharynx and uvula tissue. After removal, the airway width increases which helps to decrease snoring. This procedure requires a short stay in the hospital. Once released, it can take as many as three weeks for healing to occur. Swallowing can be quite difficult when recovering from UPPP.
Another procedure that can positively affect snoring is known as uvulpalatoplasty or LAUP. This is a modified version of the UPPP procedure. In this procedure, a laser is utilized. The soft palate is shortened and part of the uvula is cut. This is done on an outpatient basis and requires several procedures over time. LAUP is not a recommended surgery if the patient is a light snorer. Also, those with sleep apnea are not good candidates for LAUP. Thos patients who snore very loudly and are disruptive are the best choice for this procedure.
Sometimes snoring can occur due to obstructions within the nasal passages. If this is the case, nasal surgery is often a recommended medical procedure. Obstructions can be removed. Also, if the septum is deviated this too can be repaired. This is the best choice when the doctor determines that these obstructions are the root cause of the snoring.
If a person is a bad snorer a surgery is highly recommended and should be risk free. If, however, you should have the misfortune of having bad side effects of your surgery you have the right to claim medical negligence compensation. Contact a personal injury solicitor such as Patient Lawyers for help. They are experts within this area and have years of experience in the business.