Snoring

Snoring happens as a result of partial obstruction of the airflow through one's upper airway during their sleep. When the soft palate that has partially blocked the airflow in the throat vibrates, it causes the snoring sound to broadcast through the person's nose, mouth, or both. People often snore when they are overweight, but snoring can also happen to thin people. Alcohol and smoking also contribute to snoring.

Snoring can disrupt your sleep and that of those around you. Snoring can also be a sign that you have sleep apnea.

Snoring can result in the following symptoms:

Sore throat
Fatigue
Problems with memory and concentration
Mood changes
Waking up throughout the night
Interrupted breathing during sleep
Headaches

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring is a common problem that occurs during sleep. Some estimates show that as many as 30% of adults snore at least occasionally. The condition can be extremely disruptive to a good night's sleep for the other person, as well as cause relationship problems.

Snoring can be caused or worsened by several factors:

Weight gain, especially around the neck
Alcohol consumption
Nasal congestion
Obstructive sleep apnea
Large uvula or tonsils

How Are Snoring And Obstructive Sleep Apnea Different?

Snoring is typically caused by an obstructed airway. When the soft tissue in a person's throat relaxes, the airway narrows and air cannot flow easily through the mouth and nose. Snoring can occur when sleeping on the back or side.

Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) are similar in many terms. However, OSA is a much more dangerous condition. Snoring is the result of partial obstruction of the airway, whereas OSA occurs when the airway is entirely blocked. Patients with OSA experience blockages in the airway for 10 seconds or longer. During this time, the brain and body may not receive enough oxygen, causing heart rate and blood pressure to rise. OSA is more common in people who are overweight and may experience this dangerous condition when they are sleeping on their back.

Treatment Options For Snoring

A custom-made oral appliance can address snoring and obstructive sleep apnea by holding the lower jaw forward. This gives you a greater air passageway, reducing snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

The other medical Solutions for snoring include the following:

Mandibular Advancement Device
CPAP Therapy

Tips To Reduce Snoring

If you or your partner are a snorer, here are steps you can take to reduce your snoring.

Seek professional treatment. Snoring can sometimes be a sign of sleep apnea, a chronic condition that affects sleep and breathing. It's recommended that people who have sleep apnea seek treatment.
Change your sleeping position. Snoring can be caused and exacerbated by lying on your back. If you tend to snore in this position, try sleeping on your side.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases your risk of snoring.
Practice good sleep habits. Exercise regularly, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and keep a regular sleep schedule.

To learn more about our services for sleep apnea, call us at (971) 339-0816 or visit the Sleep Health Partners office at 9370 SW Greenburg Rd, Suite 422 Rd Suite 422, Portland 97223.