Snoring is a loud, unpleasant noise that happens during sleep. This concern is typically prevalent, affecting almost 90M Americans of all genders and ages. Nearly everybody occasionally snores, and minor snoring is typically not an issue. Nonetheless, continuous snoring may indicate a fundamental sleep issue, like Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). At Houston Sinus Surgery, ENT specialist Dr. Cecil Yeung will examine your concerns and suggest the most appropriate therapy, be it medications, lifestyle adjustments, oral appliance therapy, and more. Arrange an appointment with a snoring Houston specialist to explore your options. Meanwhile, continue reading to discover some of the common causes of snoring.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
OSA causes pauses in breathing while sleeping. This concern arises once the neck muscles relax to the extent that they completely obstruct the airways for over 10 seconds. The concern is marked by intervals of silence during which breathing is stopped or nearly stopped. Snoring is frequently connected with OSA, but not every snorer has this condition.
Aging
The typical aging process causes throat muscles to relax, resulting in snoring. With time, the muscle definition in the throat declines, resulting in a constriction of your airway. As humans have little control over the aging process, there is nothing you can do to avoid snoring due to age. Nevertheless, modified bedtime routines, lifestyle modifications, and throat exercises could help lessen the snoring associated with aging.
Weight Gain
One of the most likely reasons for snoring is obesity. When overweight, there is extra tissue in the nasal passages and throat. The excess tissue in your throat vibrates while breathing during sleep, prompting snoring.
Snoring is also frequently connected with weight gain. While sleeping, the weight of your neck might push down your throat. Numerous persons who have never snored may begin to do so if they gain a few pounds.
Sleeping Posture
Your sleeping position might also be a contributing factor to snoring. Poor sleeping posture could contribute to constricted airways and snoring. For example, resting on your back could force your throat’s tissues to relax and restrict your airway. Altering your sleeping position could help avoid snoring induced by poor sleep posture.
Physical Characteristics
Your physical characteristics could raise your likelihood of snoring. For instance, men are more likely to snore than women since their airways are narrower. Often, physical characteristics that contribute to snoring, like small throats and swollen adenoids, are typically inherited. Changing your lifestyle can prevent snoring triggered by physical traits.
Congestion
Other prevalent triggers for snoring include sinus and nasal issues, medications, and alcohol consumption. Clogged airways or a stuffy nose could cause breathing problems; thus, inducing snoring by generating a vacuum in your throat. Additionally, drug and alcohol use is believed to enhance muscular relaxation, resulting in snoring.
Snoring is a widespread concern. Approximately 50% of adults in the U.S. snore while sleeping. In most situations, you can address the situation by adopting a healthier lifestyle. Nonetheless, some cases require expert assessment at Houston Sinus Surgery, especially when a condition such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea is to blame. While conservative solutions like medications, custom devices like CPAP, and APAP are usually the first resort, surgery may be appropriate if your snoring does not resolve or is so severe. Call the Houston, TX, office or request an appointment online today.
