Sleep Apnea: When to See an ENT Specialist for Diagnosis and Treatment

At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, we frequently see patients suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea. This common but serious sleep disorder affects millions of people, often going unnoticed for years. If you or a loved one experiences loud snoring, restless sleep, or unexplained daytime fatigue, it may be time to visit an ENT clinic for expert evaluation.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the soft tissues of the throat collapse and block the airway. This leads to oxygen deprivation and frequent awakenings throughout the night.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you could be dealing with sleep apnea:

• Loud, chronic snoring

• Gasping or choking during sleep

• Daytime sleepiness or fatigue

• Morning headaches

• Difficulty concentrating

• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

• Mood changes or irritability

While snoring is the most well-known symptom, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea—and not everyone with sleep apnea snores. That’s why a thorough evaluation is key.

Why See an ENT for Sleep Apnea?

ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat sleep apnea, especially when structural issues in the nasal passages, throat, or sinuses contribute to the condition. At SCENT Houston, we provide comprehensive sleep evaluations, including:

• Nasal and airway exams to detect blockages

• Flexible nasopharyngoscopy to visualize the airway

• Home or lab sleep studies in collaboration with sleep medicine providers

• Imaging studies, such as CT scans of the sinuses

We also assess whether allergies, nasal obstruction, or anatomical factors are making sleep apnea worse.

ENT Treatments for Sleep Apnea

If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, treatment options from an ENT specialist may include:

• Nasal surgery (e.g., septoplasty or turbinate reduction) to improve airflow

• Tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy if enlarged tissues are causing blockage

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) to remove or tighten throat tissues

• Balloon sinuplasty or other sinus procedures for patients with chronic nasal congestion

• Referrals for CPAP therapy or custom oral appliances when appropriate

We focus on personalized, long-term solutions that address the root cause of your sleep disturbance.

When Should You Schedule an ENT Appointment?

You should see an ENT if:

• You or your partner notice loud, disruptive snoring

• You frequently wake up feeling tired, even after a full night’s sleep

• CPAP therapy has failed or is not well-tolerated

• You have known nasal or sinus issues interfering with sleep

• Your primary care doctor recommends further evaluation

Early intervention can help prevent complications like high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and memory problems linked to untreated sleep apnea.

Sleep Better, Breathe Easier

Don’t let sleep apnea go untreated. At SCENT Houston, our ENT experts are here to help you reclaim restful, healthy sleep. Call us today or request an appointment online to take the first step toward better breathing and better living.

📍 Located in Houston, TX – proudly serving patients from Memorial, Galleria, and surrounding areas.

👉 Visit us at www.scenthouston.com

📞 Call (713) 859-8268 to schedule your consultation