The Science of Snoring: What Causes It and How to Prevent It
Do you snore? If so, you’re not alone; most females snore occasionally, and males do so regularly. Though it may be a common problem, snoring can be more than just a nuisance; it can be a sign of underlying health problems. Let’s explore the science of snoring to better understand what causes it and how to prevent it.
What Causes Snoring?
When we sleep, our throat and tongue relax and fall back into our throat. This narrows our airways and causes airflow interruptions that produce the familiar sound of snoring. Though anyone can snore, certain risk factors make snoring more likely. These include:
Being male: Men are more likely than women to snore due in part to anatomical differences like a narrower throat.
Being overweight: Excess weight around the neck puts pressure on the throat, making it more likely to collapse during sleep and cause snoring.
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids can block the airway and lead to snoring.
Drinking alcohol before bed: Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat and tongue, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
Smoking or vaping: Cigarette smoke or vaping irritates the nose and throat lining, narrowing the airway and causing inflammation that can lead to snoring.
How to Prevent Snoring
There are several things you can do to prevent snoring, including:
- Losing weight if you are overweight
- Sleeping on your side rather than your back
- Avoiding alcohol before bedtime
- Quitting smoking
- Keeping your nasal passages clear by using a neti pot or nasal spray
- Using mouth tape available in the clinic
If you have tried these things and are still struggling with snoring, consult with Melinda, a Buteyko Breathwork instructor and Dr Chinese medicine. Doing a breathwork session can allow you to fix the issue, change your health and well-being, create more energy, and focus and improve your relationship with others concerned about your sleep and snoring issues.
Health Rebates are available
