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Snag Some Sleep, Take Care of Your Snoring

Silver Cross Sleep Disorders Center shares hidden health risks of snoring and how to treat it on June 20

New Lenox, IL (June 14, 2012)— Millions of Americans lose sleep each night due to the loud and persistent snoring from themselves or from their partner. “You snore when the flow of air from your mouth or nose to your lungs makes the tissues of your throat vibrate when you sleep. This creates a loud, raspy noise which can make it hard for you and your partner to get a good night’s sleep,” says Dr. Philip Leung, board certified pulmonologist and medical director of the Silver Cross Sleep Disorders Center.  If snoring keeps you or your bed partner from getting a good night’s rest, or if  one or both of you feel tired during the day, then snoring isn't just annoying, but could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that can have serious health consequences. So how do you know when you are at risk?

Join Dr. Philip Leung, board certified pulmonologist and medical director of the Silver Cross Sleep Disorders Center for a free discussion on “Snoring: Nuisance or Serious Health Problem?” on Wednesday, June 20 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Silver Cross Hospital Conference Center, Pavilion A, 1890 Silver Cross Blvd., New Lenox. He will discuss the dangers of snoring and treatment options available. Sleep equipment providers will also be on site to answer any questions and provide you with information on the latest technology available to help you catch a solid night’s rest. Register to attend at www.silvercross.org or call 1-888-660-HEAL (4325).

Why Do Some People Snore?

• The actual anatomy of the mouth -- having a low, thick, soft palate or enlarged tonsils -- can result in obstructions.
• Being overweight is another likely culprit, putting extra pressure on the throat, which can narrow the airway.
• Nasal congestion, nose shape and composition can play a part.
• Alcohol, particularly drinking before bedtime reduces the resting tone of the muscles in the back of your throat.

When it comes to milder habitual snoring, incorporating simple lifestyle changes can help relieve the snoring. This includes losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and sedatives near bedtime and sleeping on your side instead of your back.  If a stuffy nose makes your snoring worse, use nose strips, decongestants, or nasal steroid sprays to help you breathe.

”If these methods do not work, you may be able to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine that helps you breathe while you sleep,” says Dr. Leung. “The key, of course, is to consult your doctor to figure out what treatment is best for you.”

About Dr. Phillip Leung 

Dr. Philip S. Leung, completed a residency and fellowship at Loyola University Medical Center. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leung, please contact his office at Midwest Respiratory, located at the NEW Silver Cross Hospital Pavilion A, Suite 535, 1890 Silver Cross Blvd., New Lenox, at (815) 740-1301

About Silver Cross Sleep Disorders Center

The Silver Cross Sleep Disorders Centers specializes in testing, diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders including Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Sleep-Related Breathing and Movement Disorders, Insomnia, and Narcolepsy.  Located on the new Silver Cross Hospital campus at I-355 and Route 6 in New Lenox, the Center, combines the latest diagnostic technology with a home-like atmosphere. Each spacious private room features a private bathroom, calming decor, and a comfortable bed to patients at ease.  For more information, call 1-815-300-REST (7378) or visit www.silvercross.org.

About Silver Cross Hospital

Silver Cross Hospital is a not-for-profit health care provider serving Will County and southwest suburban communities since 1895. Silver Cross has been recognized as a Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals National Award winner for seven consecutive years and as one of America’s Most Customer Friendly Hospitals by the American Alliance of Healthcare Providers. With over 2,900 employees, physicians and volunteers, Silver Cross operates a 289-bed acute care hospital and 10 satellite facilities providing outpatient services and physician offices and recently opened a state-of-the-art replacement hospital on February 26, 2012 at I-355 and Route 6 in New Lenox. To learn more about Silver Cross Hospital or a referral to a physician on staff, visit www.silvercross.org or call 1-888-660-HEAL (4325).