Quality Sleep
Snoring
Member of American Academy of Sleep Medicine
Snoring
Snoring is the loud, harsh sound that occurs when airflow is partially blocked as it passes through the throat during sleep. It happens when the muscles in the throat relax and the surrounding tissues vibrate while breathing.
Snoring is common and can affect people of all ages. While occasional snoring is usually harmless, frequent or loud snoring may indicate an underlying sleep disorder.
Nasal breathing is normal, because the nose provides filtration, moisture and temperature control to breathing air. When nose is congested, the mouth opens, blocking the air passages due to tongue falling back. Mouth breathing for long time changes the shape of palate and throat. Fluttering of the soft palate produces the sound of snoring.
Obesity can worsen the airflow further by making airways more floppy. Though not everyone with snoring or sleep apnea is obese.
Why Snoring Happens
Snoring occurs due to:
Relaxed throat muscles during sleep
Narrowed airway
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
Nasal congestion or blockage
Obesity (extra tissue around the neck)
Sleeping on the back
Alcohol consumption before bed
Common Risk Factors
Being overweight
Male gender
Middle or older age
Smoking
Family history of snoring
Nasal problems (deviated septum, allergies)
Symptoms Associated with Problematic Snoring
If snoring is accompanied by the following, it may suggest a more serious condition:
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Gasping or choking at night
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Poor concentration
High blood pressure
These symptoms may indicate Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
Weight loss
Sleeping on your side
Avoiding alcohol before bedtime
Treating nasal congestion
Medical Treatments
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine
Oral appliances
Surgery (in selected cases)
Lets Get Started
Contact Us
For any queries, please call us.
516-741-0055