Snoring

Snoring is caused by a blockage in the breathing passage. The blockages may be in the form of:

• Tongue falling into the throat
• Allergies
• Throat weakness causing the throat to close during sleep
• Sinus infections
• Displaced or skewed jaw, often caused by tension in the facial muscles
• Fat deposits in and around the throat
• Congestion in the nose

The sound of snoring itself is caused by the flapping of the soft palate because of the irregular airflow in the breathing passage. The snorer themselves probably do not realize they snore.

Snoring affects approximately 90 million American adults — 37 million on a regular basis. Those at greatest risk include males and people who are overweight.

Snoring alone is unhealthy and a nuisance to bed partners or anyone passing by the bedroom, but it can also be a signal of the dangerous sleeping disorder, Sleep Apnea. Plus, not only is snoring unattractive albeit beyond the sufferer’s control, it deprives the snorer of much needed sleep and rest by disturbing sleep patterns.

Causes:

• Relaxed Muscles: In the tongue and throat, muscles can relax too much during sleep.
• Obstructed Nasal Passages: Just being congested can cause snoring, and sinus infections and allergy attacks can trigger or worsen snoring.
• Weight: Although seemingly unlikely, weight is a significant factor in sleep disorders, especially snoring.

Medical Procedures:

Although there isn’t a 100 percent guarantee, some surgeries have proven effective in some people at reducing or eliminating snoring, putting the patience at a lower risk of developing Sleep Apnea. The following is merely a list and explanation of some of these surgeries, but the best way to proceed if you suspect snoring is a major hazard to your health is to consult your physician.

• Tonsillectomy: Removal of the tonsils to clear up the breathing passage.
• Adenoidectomy: Removal of the adenoids to clear up the breathing passage.
• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Tightens flabby tissues in the throat and palate, and expands air passages.
• Thermal Ablation Palatoplasty (TAP): This refers to several types of surgeries to help snoring and sleep apnea including bipolar cautery, laser, and radiofrequency.
• Genioglossus and hyoid advancement: A surgical procedure for the treatment of sleep apnea. It prevents collapse of the lower throat and pulls the tongue muscles forward, thereby opening the obstructed airway.

What you can do at home:

• Sleep Patterns: Establish regular sleep patterns by going to sleep and waking up at the same times everyday to allow your body and mind to follow a schedule.
• Air Purifiers: Air purifiers are great at removing allergens, dust, dust mites, smoke, odors and much more that may trigger sinus or allergy attacks which can lead to snoring. Having an air purifier in the bedroom is like creating a clean air sanctuary for when you sleep, ensuring a restful and healthy night’s rest.
• Exercise: Exercising every day, from walking to cardio to any sport, helps maintain a healthy heart and general physique. Losing weight may be the best all-natural and non-invasive way to stop snoring and prevent sleep apnea.
• What to avoid before bed: Avoid alcohol, exercise, caffeineand heavy meals approximately 3-5 hours before bed.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Due to the possible dangers associated with sleep apnea including heart attack and death to name a few, consult your physician if snore heavily or notice that you or a member of your family has paused breath during the night. A sleep test may be necessary to determine if sleep apnea is present. Safeguard yourself and your family by living a healthful and mindful lifestyle.