Simple Snoring – Surgical Intervention

Not Routinely Funded

This policy is for non-apnoeic (or simple) snoring only and therefore does not apply to patients with diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS).

SURGICAL INTERVENTION

Surgical intervention for simple snoring is not routinely commissioned by Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB)

LIFESTYLE ADVICE

Patients complaining of simple snoring should be counselled without referral to secondary care. Advice should be given on the following lifestyle changes where appropriate:

• Weight reduction if above recommended BMI.o   Extra fatty tissue around the airways can block the passage of air and cause snoring.

• To stop smoking.o   Smoking irritates the airways, causing chronic inflammation on the long term.

•  Reduce or stop alcohol intake.o   Alcohol and sedatives can relax the throat muscles, causing narrowing of the airways.

• Keeping the nose clear (including therapies such as nasal sprays or strips).
• Use of ear plugs for bed partners whilst asleep.  
• Self-training to alter their sleep position to avoid lying on back (e.g. sewing lump into back of pyjamas/nightdress as temporary training method). Sleeping in the supine position is associated with an increased degree of airway obstruction.

Cases for Individual Funding Consideration

On a case to case basis, patients might be eligible for surgical intervention, in consideration of their exceptionality. The requesting clinician must provide information to support the case for being considered an exception, by submitting an individual funding request.