Snoring frequently happens when the airflow through the nose is blocked during sleep and can affect the quality of sleep and overall health. It may also be a sign of underlying health issues, such as sleep apnea, nasal congestion, or a sleep disorder. Here are some causes and effective treatments a snoring doctor can help you understand:
Symptoms of Snoring
There are various symptoms of snoring, including excessive daytime sleepiness, irritability, waking up grasping for breath, frequent sore throat upon waking, and restless sleep. Restless sleep is the inability to stay in a deep sleep for an adequate amount of time. When an individual snores, it results in frequent awakenings throughout the night as the body reacts to blocked airflow. You may also experience frequent tossing and turning, changing position, or waking up several times during the night.
Causes of Snoring
Colds
Colds cause snoring by preventing airflow through the nose because the nasal passages swell and congest due to mucus buildup and inflammation. This blockage causes the air to pass through the mouth instead of the nose, increasing the chances of snoring. The mouth and tissues vibrate more easily when you breathe this way, producing a snoring sound.
Allergies
When exposed to allergens such as pet dander, pollen, or dust mites, your body reacts and releases histamines. Histamines are chemicals that trigger inflammation in the nasal passages. This causes swelling in the nasal tissues and increases mucus production, making it difficult to breathe through the noise. The allergies can also irritate the throat, reducing the airway and increasing the likelihood of snoring.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is the inflammation of the sinus cavities. These cavities are hollow spaces filled with air behind the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Once the sinuses are inflamed due to infection, they produce excess mucus, resulting in nasal blockage and congestion. The nasal blockages might force you to breathe through the mouth while trying to sleep. Sinusitis also causes swelling of the throat tissues, which narrows airways and worsens snoring. A snoring doctor may recommend nasal sprays or strips to reduce nasal congestion while the infection is treated.
Alcohol and Sedatives
Alcohol and sedatives relax the muscles in the throat and airway, which also can cause snoring. If these muscles overrelax during sleep, the airway becomes narrower and minimizes the space through which air can pass during breathing. This could make soft tissues in the throat, like the soft palate, vibrate, resulting in snoring. Alcohol and sedatives also lower your body’s natural defenses that keep your airway open during sleep. This increases the risk of snoring in people who do not usually snore.
Sleep Position
Your sleeping position can also determine whether you are more likely to snore. Sleeping on your back might cause the soft palate and tongue to fall deeper into the mouth, blocking airflow and increasing vibration in the throat. Another potential cause for snoring is a pillow that doesn’t properly support the head and neck. A pillow that is too soft or misshapen could make your neck overextend, or your chin dip too close to your chest, interrupting adequate airflow.
Contact a Snoring Doctor Today
Snoring is a common issue that is caused by various factors such as age, anatomy, and obesity. An experienced snoring doctor can help you identify the signs of snoring early and receive the best care to manage and treat it. Contact a reliable snoring doctor to learn more about their services.
