Snoring is a very common occurrence in both men and women. But whether you find it bothersome or it doesn’t affect you or your partner…
Snoring is a very common occurrence in both men and women. But whether you find it bothersome or it doesn’t affect you or your partner, understanding the reason behind snoring is important. Here are some reasons why you might be snoring.
The fundamental causes of snoring
Snoring occurs when air encounters partially obstructed upper airways in the nose and throat during sleep, leading to turbulence or a rumbling sound. Although it is natural for the muscles in the nose and throat to relax while sleeping, there are occasions when they become excessively lax, resulting in narrowed airways that impede the flow of air through the nose or into the lungs.
When the airways become narrower, the airflow becomes more forceful, increasing the likelihood of snoring due to mouth breathing. The tissues in the nose, throat, tonsils, and mouth vibrate, generating distinct sounds associated with snoring.
Nasal obstruction
Chronic congestion caused by allergies, sinus infections, a deviated septum, or narrow nasal passages can hinder the ability to breathe freely through the nose and lead to snoring.
A deviated septum occurs when the thin piece of bone and cartilage separating the nostrils becomes crooked or dislocated, causing breathing difficulties during sleep.
Around 80% of people experience some degree of septum misalignment, according to WebMD. While some individuals are born with a deviated septum, others may acquire it due to physical injury or trauma.
Mouth anatomy
A low and thick soft palate contributes to narrowed airways. Additionally, when the palatine uvula, a triangular piece of tissue within the soft palate, becomes elongated, it obstructs airflow and results in increased tissue vibration, which manifests as snoring.
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids, clusters of tissue located in the back of the throat and nose respectively, can also lead to breathing problems. Individuals who snore due to enlarged tonsils and adenoids may benefit from outpatient procedures such as tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy.
Excess fat in the neck area
If there is an obstruction in either the nose or throat due to any of the aforementioned reasons, individuals commonly resort to mouth breathing, which is strongly associated with snoring.
Now we know some of the causes, here are some associated risks when that can occur with snoring.
The risks associated with snoring
Various factors contribute to snoring, including:
Gender : It is believed that men snore twice as much as women. However, specialists suggest that women who snore are more prone to sustaining heart damage.
Weight : Being overweight increases the likelihood of snoring, as weight gain leads to excess fat around the neck.
Age : Approximately 30% of both men and women above the age of 30 snores. Snoring tends to worsen with age due to decreased muscle tone in the throat.
Lifestyle habits that contribute to snoring
Your lifestyle can also influence snoring. Some factors to consider:
Consuming alcohol or sedatives before bedtime : Alcohol, tranquillizers, and sleeping pills can induce greater muscle relaxation during sleep, thereby increasing the likelihood of snoring.
Sleeping position : Sleeping on your back can lead to snoring, as the tongue and soft palate collapse into the back of the throat, partially obstructing the upper airways.
Air moisture : Insufficient moisture in the air can irritate the sinuses, resulting in nasal congestion.
Pinpointing the cause of your snoring will make it easier to find a solution. Alternatively, you can pay a visit to our TDO Centre, and we will diagnose and prepare a custom-made anti-snoring treatment just for you.
