Snoring is the most common of all sleeping disorders. It is usually harmless to the snorer; in many cases, snoring causes more distress to the snorer’s partner. However, excessive snoring can lead to lack of sleep, daytime tiredness and marital problems.
Snoring Causes
Snoring is the noise that occurs when structures in the mouth, nose and throat vibrate as the breath passes through them. Some of the more common causes of snoring include:
- being overweight, especially in men – excess fat around the neck prevents the breath flowing smoothly when lying down
- weakness of the throat muscles – occurs with age and in smokers
- alcohol or sleeping pills – relaxes the throat muscles, allowing them to vibrate
- sleeping on the back – the tongue may fall backwards, partly blocking the airflow
- the shape of the jaw, nose or throat – may affect the smooth flow of air.
In some people, snoring is a symptom of the more serious condition obstructive sleep apnea or, more rarely, central sleep apnea.
Snoring Remedies
Simple snoring remedies include:
- not sleeping on the back – a popular suggestion is to sew an object such as a table tennis ball onto the back of the snorer’s pajamas
- losing weight
- stopping smoking
- avoiding drinking alcohol in the evening
- nasal strips or nose clips – to encourage breathing through the nose rather than the mouth
- wearing earplugs – for the snorer’s partner.
People who are seriously troubled by snoring should seek advice from their doctor. He or she will be able to check for any underlying disorder and may recommend medication or the use of a special dental appliance called a mandibular advancement splint. A mandibular advancement splint is worn in the mouth during sleep and acts by pulling the lower jaw slightly forwards, to prevent the tongue blocking the airway.
Snoring Surgery
Surgery may help in people with severe snoring problems caused by abnormalities such as nasal polyps or excess tissue at the back of the throat, both of which can obstruct breathing. However, surgery for snoring is usually only considered when simpler treatments have failed.
Snoring is a Recognized Medical Disorder
There is no need to feel embarrassed about consulting a doctor for snoring, or to endure repeated nights of disturbed sleep. Snoring is a recognized medical disorder; in the UK, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has published guidelines on its treatment. A health professional should be able to provide further advice on how to stop snoring for both snorers and their partners, or may refer the snorer for tests in the form of a sleep study.
References:
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Accessed 05-03-10
NHS Choices. Snoring. Accessed 05-03-10
Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
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