Snoring

Snoring is a very common problem among both men and women especially men. Sometimes snoring can occur in children too. It increases mostly with age. More than one third of adults snore. Snoring happens when the airflow is blocked either through the mouth or the nose.

Snoring can cause sleeplessness for both the snorer as well as the sleep partner. The snorer may wake up many a times to catch up a breath and the bed partner may wake up due to noise of snoring as well as concern for the partner. The sound during snoring is caused when the air suddenly flows in resulting in the vibration of the tissues.

Usually snoring is harmless, but it could be dangerous if it is a symptom of sleep apnea. This would men that a person would stop breathing for 2 to 10 or more seconds during their sleep. If a person suspects they have sleep apnea they should seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.

If a child snores more than usual, it is suggested that they are taken to a healthcare provider to check for sleep apnea. It is advisable to remember that snoring should not be considered an embarrassment or a nuisance to one's partner but it should be taken seriously as a possible serious health issue.

Why people snore?

People snore when there is an obstruction in airflow either through the mouth or through the nose while they are sleeping. Snoring occurs when the tongue and the throat meet the soft palate and the uvula. The vibration that occurs between them causes the noise.

A few reasons for snoring include alcohol, drugs or sometimes due to deep sleep. Sometimes, the throat tissue will be too thick resulting in snoring. Snoring can also occur due to a stuffy nose or a nasal block. Research shows that most snorers are found to be overweight and middle aged.

Consequences of snoring

1. It causes breathlessness
2. Results in sleeplessness
3. Poor mental health
4. Mood swings
5. Low energy level
6. It causes reduced oxygen to the brain which can result in high blood pressure
7. Hypertension, diabetes and even premature death

Diagnosis of snoring

It is advisable to visit a sleep specialist and get an examination of the throat, nose, mouth, palate, and neck. The specialist would check for the health conditions of the person that could include a sleep disorder. The doctor might opt for tests in a sleep clinic where someone would observe the sleeping patterns of the person.

Prevention and cure of snoring

1. Weight loss
2. Stop smoking and drinking. Avoid second-hand smoking too
3. Avoid dairy products
4. Correction in sleeping posture
5. Try to avoid food and drink just before sleeping
6. Avoid antihistamines and try nasal decongestants
7. Medically, snoring associated with obstructive sleep apnea, may be cured by using of CPAP, use of maxillofacial devices, UPPP, Somnoplasty, or sometimes tonsillectomy