Snoring The Noisy Sleep Problem

What is Snoring?

Almost everyone knows what this is, but few people know what actually causes it. Everyone from children to the elderly may snore and it is important to find out the cause as well as the different ways to treat it.

The problem occurs when the pathway of air at the back of the mouth is obstructed. This results in the sleeper making noises when they breathe, often at times very loud noises, which is known as snoring. These noises are made by vibrations that occur when the upper throat collapses and hits the tongue. The striking of your throat and tongue together result in vibrations that is heard as that annoying noise called snoring.

There are many reasons why this problem occurs. Some of these include lack of muscle tone in the neck and throat, a long uvula, excessive neck tissue, and congestion to name a few.


Different Types of The Problem

There is regular snoring and then there is sleep apnea. The regular noise is caused by deep sleep, alcohol intake, and the like that allows the throat and tongue to relax to such a degree that snoring results. However, a different type of the
problem is known as sleep apnea and this is significantly more dangerous.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when an individual snores very loudly, which is followed by moments of no breathing or sound whatsoever. This is due to a completely obstructed airway. Individuals may experience 30-300 of these non-breathing episodes each night. Episodes that last longer than 10 seconds each and occur more than seven times per hour are serious cause for concern. This is because the individual’s heart must work harder because the level of oxygen in the body is reduced during these episodes. Obstructive sleep apnea may cause serious health problems in the long term for the sufferer so it is important to see a physician for help.


What are the Symptoms?

There are many symptoms associated with snoring. The most obvious are the loud noises coming from the mouth or throat of the individual. These noises may be soft, loud, raspy, harsh, fluttering, or sound like vibrations.

Many individuals who snore are restless when they sleep because the snoring interrupts their sleep pattern. This results in a poor night’s sleep and chronic exhaustion in some individuals. Also, individuals may stop breathing at times when they are snoring.


Can it be Treated?

There are many different treatments for individuals who snore. Perhaps some of the best include losing weight, increasing physical fitness and muscle tone, developing a nightly sleep pattern, and sleeping on your side. These are things individuals can do own their own to take control of their problem. However, some individuals with sleep apnea or chronic snoring that are not affected by the above changes may need some professional help. Doctors can easily evaluate if you are a candidate for surgery or suggest different devices that are developed to help reduce or stop snoring.


Final Thoughts

If you snore or sleep with someone who does, then treatment is important for an improved night’s sleep. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and try some of the different methods to see if your condition improves. If not, then perhaps you are a candidate for more intensive treatment. Don't worry too much though, it can be cured; you just have to be willing to find the right cure for you.

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