What is Snoring?
Snoring is the sound that occurs when flow of air is partially obstructed in the back of the throat. Due to the partially obstructed airway the air has to speed up to move through this obstruction causing the tongue, soft palate, and uvula to vibrate against each other.
It is estimated that 45% of all adults snore occasionally and 25% snore habitually. Snoring is more common in males and people who are overweight.
Snoring is a sign of partially obstructed breathing. In addition to disturbing one's own sleep patterns this can disturb the sleep patterns of bed partners. Snoring can also be a symptom of a more serious medical condition known as Obstructed Sleep Apnea (OSA).
Factors leading to snoring.
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Jaw and throat anatomy
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Body weight
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Family history
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Alcohol
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Heart or lung conditions
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Sleep position
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Nasal problems
Can snoring be prevented?
Occasional or mild snoring might be helped with:
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Weight loss
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Avoiding alcohol before bedtime
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Sleeping on your side
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Tilting the head of your bed up about four inches.
Heavy or chronic snoring may require medical care and should be evaluated by a specially trained physician. The treatment will be determined by the patient and physician working together. Taking into consideration such things as: patient's age, overall health, and medical history. Also taking into account the extent of the disorder, the patient's expectations and tolerance of specific medications, procedures, and therapies.
The good news; there is help available
Working with the sleep physician there are options available for those who snore. It may be possible to once again have a quiet nights sleep.
