What Is Snoring?
Snoring is the sound of tissue at the back of the throat vibrating when airflow becomes obstructed during sleep. The sound is sometimes soft, but it can also be loud and annoying. Snoring can be one of the factors involved in sleep deprivation.
What Age Do People Usually Start Snoring?
There is no set age for snoring to begin. Even children can snore regularly; however, snoring generally gets worse with age. This is because as we age there is a change in muscle tone. In addition, there can be an increase in weight and nasal congestion. Hormonal changes can also play a role. Some people never snore, some snore on occasion, and then there are those who snore every night.
What Are The Most Common Reasons For Snoring?
Snoring happens airflow is restricted and the tissue at the back of the throat vibrates. Risk factors for snoring include obesity and a thick neck. Being a man is also a risk factor. Crowding at the back of the throat due to a large or obstructive tongue, large tonsils or other anatomical factors are also associated with an increased risk of snoring. Some people may snore only on their back when the tongue can drop to the back of your mouth, obstructing airflow.
What Can People Do For Immediate Relief?
While not all snoring can be easily remedied, there are many options that take care of the issue. First, try changing your sleeping position by lying on your side. A body pillow can help you maintain that position. Second, it might help to avoid alcohol, smoking, and other drugs. It is also important to lose weight. In addition, try to keep your nasal passages open by rinsing your nose out with a salt water rinse before bed. If these easy remedies do not work, you will want to consult with an ENT specialist for further help.
How Does Snoring Affect Sleep Patterns?
Snoring can certainly disrupt a good night of sleep. The sound of snoring can wake you up, even if it is you doing the snoring. You may not be aware you are snoring or that it is waking you, but it can cause fragmented sleep and disrupt the natural progression of sleep. Snoring can also be a sign of sleep apnea. Around half of those who regularly snore have sleep apnea, which means they stop breathing for 10 seconds or more at a time.
What Are The Most Commonly Recommended Treatments For Snoring?
Most doctors will prescribe lifestyle modification as the first line of defense against snoring. That means perhaps losing weight, sleep position training, allergy treatments, and other remedies. If your snoring interrupts your sleep, we encourage you to seek help through a consultation with the Breathe Clear Institute. We can help provide the best type of treatment depending on the cause of your snoring. Sleep is a highly important part of your overall daily health. Once you have the relief you need, you’ll sleep better and feel better.