Causes of Snoring

Snoring occurs when the muscles in the roof of the mouth relax, narrowing the airway and causing an obstruction. This can lead to various problems, including upper airway resistance syndrome and hypopnea. Symptoms of snoring may be associated with other factors, including obesity and excess tissues in the back of the throat. Alcohol and other drugs with similar effects may also contribute to snoring.

Behavioral changes may be the easiest to identify and to implement. Some of these are simple, but may require some effort. Lifestyle changes may be necessary to relieve snoring, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, or changing sleeping positions. Changing medications or abstaining from alcohol and tobacco use can also help alleviate symptoms. If your snoring problem is a result of your mouth anatomy, adjusting your mouth's shape can also help.

Risk Factors

Overweight and obesity are major risk factors for snoring. Certain medications, such as sedatives, may cause the snorer to stop breathing and snore. Certain sleeping positions can also obstruct airflow, and nutritional counseling may help a person sleep in a different position. However, it is important to keep in mind that snoring may be a result of other conditions, such as upper airway resistance syndrome, sleep apnea, and obstructive sleep apnea.

Treatments

Surgical procedures can also be effective in treating snoring. In some cases, a defect in the nose or the soft palate may be the cause. Weight loss may reduce fatty tissue and decrease snoring. Alcohol and smoking can also relax the muscles in the throat and obstruct airflow. Some of these treatments may even lead to weight loss and an improved quality of sleep. You can consider a home based sleep study if you snore, and it comes with report interpretation if a positive airway pressure therapy is suitable for your snoring treatment after your sleep study test is completed.