Snoring is a common nighttime nuisance that affects millions of people worldwide. While it may seem like just an annoying sound, snoring can indicate underlying health concerns and disrupt sleep quality for both those who snore and their loved ones. At Sleep South Diagnostics, we believe that understanding why snoring happens is the first step toward finding a solution.
Why Snoring Happens
Snoring occurs when airflow through the mouth and nose is partially obstructed during sleep, causing vibrations in the tissues of the throat. Several factors contribute to this obstruction:
Anatomy of the Airway – People with a naturally narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, a long soft palate, or a thick tongue are more prone to snoring.
Obesity and Snoring – Excess weight, especially around the neck, can put pressure on the airway, leading to increased obstruction and snoring.
Nasal Congestion and Snoring – Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can block nasal passages, forcing individuals to breathe through their mouths, which can increase snoring.
Sleep Position and Snoring – Sleeping on the back can cause the tongue and soft tissues of the throat to collapse backward, increasing airway resistance and snoring.
Alcohol and Sedatives Before Bed – These substances relax the muscles in the throat, making it more likely for the airway to become partially blocked.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea – Chronic snoring can sometimes indicate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
How to Stop Snoring
If snoring is affecting your sleep quality or that of your partner, here are some potential solutions to consider:
Lifestyle Changes – Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, and changing sleep positions can help reduce snoring.
Treating Nasal Congestion – Using saline sprays, humidifiers, or allergy medications may open nasal passages and improve breathing.
Oral Appliances for Snoring – Devices designed to reposition the jaw and tongue can help keep the airway open.
CPAP Therapy – For individuals with sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines can prevent airway collapse and stop snoring.
Medical Evaluation – If snoring persists despite lifestyle adjustments, a sleep study can help diagnose underlying sleep disorders.
Get Help for Snoring
If you or a loved one struggles with snoring, it may be time to seek professional help. At Sleep South Diagnostics, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a restful, healthier night’s sleep.
Don’t let snoring disrupt your life—contact Sleep South Diagnostics, today!