Why Do We Snore?

Categories: Sleep Apnea

That’s a great question. Why do we snore? What causes this loud, obnoxious, and for some, nightly event to take place? In today’s blog, we’re looking at the causes of snoring, and how this issue connects to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Let’s look at how the issue develops and what solutions we offer our Pearland, TX, events.

The Causes of Snoring

When the soft tissues in our throat and mouth become too relaxed as we sleep, they collapse and block airflow. When we breathe, this forces air through and vibrates the tissues, creating a loud sound. Factors behind snoring can include neck circumference, deviated septum or sinus problems, obesity, and sleeping on your back instead of your side. While for some snoring only happens occasionally, for others this could be a nightly issue and one linked to sleep apnea.

The Potential Dangers

Sleep apnea also occurs when soft tissues collapse during sleep, but instead of only partially blocking airflow, this completely blocks airflow. People stop breathing until the brain wakes them. Even though they rarely remember this happening, it could occur multiple times a night. In the morning, despite believing they slept the night before, sufferers will actually be sleep deprived and may experience a number of symptoms, such as exhaustion, irritability, difficulty staying focused, dry mouth, and headaches. In the night, one might wake suddenly gasping for air or choking. Chronic snoring is often a warning sign of OSA. Treating OSA is vital, as the disorder has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, heart attack, and depression. The disorder also strains the immune system, which could lead to more frequent illness.

Possible Solutions

If you snore as a result of sleep apnea, how do we stop it? Well, we will prescribe an oral appliance to be worn at night. The customized sleep solution will look and fit like a mouthguard. However, the device is specially designed to reposition the jaw and keep airways open, preventing the collapse of soft tissues. Patients then breathe without difficulty the entire night, avoiding frequent snores. Along with an oral appliance, we may suggest sleeping on your side, avoiding alcohol right before bed, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, losing weight with diet and exercise, and keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and free of screens (TVs, computers, and yes, even smartphones). If you have any questions about improving your sleep, the please contact our team today to discuss possible solutions.

Do You Have Questions About Snoring?

We can help you rest easier with our snore and sleep apnea treatment options. To help treat sleep disorder, then please call Houston Sleep Solutions in Spring, TX, at (281) 320-2000, or in Pearland, TX, at (832) 564-3508.