Snoring is an interesting topic. It is not uncommon, and there is actually nothing particularly wrong with it. In fact, some doctors might say it is completely normal after all; almost everyone snores, even babies.
You could even snore when you have had an extremely tiring day, but sometimes, snoring can be bad. It gets bad when it is particularly loud or jarring. If snoring causes you to gasp for air in your sleep or stops your breathing completely, then that may be a sign of a more serious condition.
Source: Liebscher & Bracht – The Pain Specialists
Some factors can contribute to snoring or the obstruction of your airway while you sleep. These factors are;
- Age: As we grow older, our muscle tone decreases, and this causes our airways to shrink, which leads to snoring.
- Anatomy: Having a large tongue or large tonsils can restrict your airways and cause snoring
- Sex: Snoring is mostly common among men.
- Alcohol and sedatives: Drinking alcohol and taking sedatives relaxes your muscles and restricts airflow through your nose, tongue, and mouth.
- Family history: Snoring can be inherited. If a biological parent snores, the child could snore, too.
- Sleeping position: The way you sleep could block your airways and cause you to snore.
- Weight: Snoring is common amongst people with high Body mass index (Obesity)
- General health: For someone who suffers from nasal congestion as an allergy or if you have a cold, you could snore in your sleep.
How to stop snoring
If you would like to stop snoring, here are a few things you can try;
– Lose some weight: Weight is one of the most common reasons for snoring. People who are overweight have a lot of extra tissues in their throats. This restricts their airflow while they sleep. To stop snoring, you should take up a fitness routine.
– Change your sleeping position: When you lie on your back, your tongue falls backwards into your throat. This restricts airflow, therefore causing snoring. Instead of lying on your back, lie on your side.
– Use Nasal strips: Using Nasal adhesive strips on the bridge of your nose widens the nasal passage, therefore causing more airflow.
– Treat your health: Taking care of your cold or allergies can help open your airways and allow air to come in.
– Limit your alcohol: Do not drink alcohol at least three hours before bed.
– Raise the head of your bed or your pillow for improved airflow.
In some cases, you may need to see a doctor if your snoring causes sleep apnea (breathing ceasing and starting while sleeping). They may recommend;
– Oral appliances: These mouthguards keep your jaw in the proper position for air to flow.
– Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty: This laser treatment reduces tissue in your soft palate, which makes space for improved airflow.
– Tonsillectomy: This procedure involves removing excess tissue from the back of your throat.
– Other Surgical treatment recommended by your doctor.
Snoring ordinarily is normal but when it becomes a problem (sleep apnea) or it gets disturbingly loud, you should visit the doctor for help.
Disclaimer
A medical practitioner did not write this article. If you suffer from any of the conditions stated in this article, please consult your doctor.
