Why Do We Snore?
The rasping sound of a snore is caused by abnormal breathing during sleep. Normally, the throat has sufficient space for air to flow easily, without making a rasping sound. When a person lies down, the tissues of the throat, which are soft and collapsible, may come into contact with each other and vibrate as air is drawn between them. This vibration causes the sound we call snoring.
Is Snoring Dangerous?
Snoring can be a sign of a number of illnesses, ranging from the common cold to sleep apnea, a potentially dangerous condition where the air passage collapses causing complete or near complete obstruction of air flow.
Most people who snore do so because they are unable to breathe properly through the nose. This can be due to a number of factors including blocked nasal valves, a deviated septum (the cartilaginous wall that divides the inside of the nose in two), overweight, or simply sleeping on the back. Here are some ways to reduce the likelihood of snoring:
- Invest in a humidifier. Dry and swollen membranes can cause snoring. Raising the level of humidity in your bedroom can help ease your airways.
- Sleep on your side. Sleeping on your side helps keep your mouth closed and also helps keep nasal valves open. (Placing a pillow behind your back may help prevent you from rolling over during sleep.)
- Stop smoking. Smoking often increases nasal congestion and mucous discharge. Many smokers have found that, after quitting, they no longer snore.
- Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can encourage the throat muscles to relax, giving rise to snoring. Avoid drinking for four hours before bedtime.
- Use a breathing aid. Breathe Right® nasal strips have been specially designed to widen the nasal valve space. Each nasal strip consists of two flat parallel bands of plastic embedded in a special adhesive pad. When the nasal strip is placed across the nose, the bands attempt to straighten. This action gently lifts the sides of the nose outwards. The resulting increase in space makes it easier to breathe.
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