What Causes Snoring?
Snoring occurs when there is an obstructed flow of air through the mouth and nose areas. Snoring can originate from a variety of different causes, but it usually stems from an obstructed nasal airway, a deviated septum, nasal polyps, weak throat and tongue muscles, bulky throat tissue, or a long soft palate and/or uvula.
Habitual snorers are commonly at risk for sleep apnea, as well as chronic tiredness, unnecessary strain on the heart, and a reduction in their overall quality of life.
How to Stop Snoring
There are several things you can do to reduce snoring, such as:
- Sleeping on your side
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Relieving nasal congestion with nasal sprays or nasal strips
- Avoiding alcohol within four hours of sleep
- But for some people, they may have undiagnosed sleep apnea causing their snoring which requires more complex treatment. One treatment for sleep apnea is a plastic oral appliance that we can custom-fit to your mouth to help keep your breathing passages open as you sleep. You may also be referred to a sleep specialist, who can provide other treatment options to help you treat sleep apnea and stop snoring.