Snoring Facts, causes and cures

The facts

Snoring is a major social problem which does not get the proper attention it deserves. Statistics show that one in every three people snores on a regular basis and men are more likely to snore than women. Only a small percentage of snorers realize they have a snoring problem by themselves due to the fact that snoring takes place while they sleep. Usually, it's their bed partners or roommates that find out first.

The snoring intensity may vary from a soft, gentle sound to a woodshop like sound. The average snore is about 60 decibels but some 90 decibels snores have been recorded.

Generally speaking, snoring as a primary problem is harmless as far as the snorer himself is concerned. However, snoring has been proven to cause serious relationship problems due to the impact on the snorer's partner that usually experience's severe sleep deprivation.

In some cases, snoring can be an indicator of an underlying medical condition such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).if left untreated, OSA can lead to life threatening conditions including heart disease and even strokes.

The Causes

Like any other sound, snoring is generated by vibrations. These vibrations occur when an obstruction of some sort is formed in our throat area tissues making it difficult for air to move freely.

These are some of the most common reasons for snoring:

Allergies, flew and having a cold
"over-relaxed" muscles due to alcohol and drug abuse
Smoking related airway obstruction
Obesity
Congested nose
Sleep apnea
Deviated septum
Sleeping position

Stop snoring

There are many potential treatments for snoring. However, it is most difficult finding the right treatment for you. You can start by making some behavioral changes to treat snoring which is caused by obesity, congested nose and sleeping position but if that does not work you can turn to different kinds of stop snoring products which are abundant.

Snoring can also be treated by surgery. However, surgery must be considered only as a last resort. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor on ways to treat your snoring, he is the most qualified person that can help you.

see also: The causes of snoring

Relevant news and articles

Treating Sleep Apnea - US News Health
Learn about treatment options for sleep apnea, including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), dental devices, and surgery.

Sleep Apnea Tests - US News Health
Learn about tests for sleep apnea, including participating in a sleep study, at US News.

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