{"categories":"Sleep disorders,Adult,Adult,Clinical Care Concept","keywords":"Snoring NOS,45 to 64 middle,19 to 44 younger,Symptom","abstract":"\u003cp\u003eSnoring \u0026mdash; Comprehensive overview covers causes, treatments including lifestyle changes, devices, surgery to stop snoring.\u003c/p\u003e","title":"Snoring","body":"\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eDefinition\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eSnoring is the hoarse or harsh sound that occurs when your breathing is partially obstructed in some way while you're sleeping. Sometimes snoring may indicate a serious health condition. In addition, snoring can be a nuisance to your partner. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs many as half of adults snore sometimes. Snoring occurs when air flows past relaxed tissues in your throat, causing the tissues to vibrate as you breathe, which creates those irritating sounds. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol close to bedtime or sleeping on your side, can help stop snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition, medical devices and surgery are available that may reduce disruptive snoring. However, these aren't suitable or necessary for everyone who snores. \u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eSymptoms\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eDepending on the cause of your snoring, your symptoms may include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eNoise during sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eExcessive daytime sleepiness \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDifficulty concentrating \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eSore throat \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eRestless sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eGasping or choking at night \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eHigh blood pressure \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eChest pain at night \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen to see a doctor\u003cbr /\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSee your doctor if:\u003c/strong\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eYour snoring is so loud it's disrupting your partner's sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eYou wake up choking or gasping \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese may indicate your snoring is caused by a more serious condition, such as obstructive sleep apnea. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf your child snores, ask your pediatrician about it. Children can have obstructive sleep apnea too. Nose and throat problems \u0026mdash; such as enlarged tonsils \u0026mdash; and obesity often can narrow a child's airway, which can lead to your child developing sleep apnea. Treating these conditions may help your child in many ways. \u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eCauses\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eMany factors, such as the anatomy of your mouth and sinuses, alcohol consumption, allergies, a cold, and your weight, can lead to snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen you doze off and progress from a light sleep to a deep sleep, the muscles in the roof of your mouth (soft palate), tongue and throat relax. The tissues in your throat can relax enough that they partially block your airway and vibrate. And, the more narrowed your airway, the more forceful the airflow becomes. This causes tissue vibration to increase, which causes your snoring to grow louder. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe following conditions can affect the airway and cause snoring: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYour mouth anatomy.\u003c/strong\u003e Having a low, thick soft palate can narrow your airway. People who are overweight may have extra tissues in the back of their throat that may narrow their airways. Likewise, if the triangular piece of tissue hanging from the soft palate (uvula) is elongated, airflow can be obstructed and vibration increased. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol consumption.\u003c/strong\u003e Snoring also can be brought on by consuming too much alcohol before bedtime. Alcohol relaxes throat muscles and decreases your natural defenses against airway obstruction. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNasal problems.\u003c/strong\u003e Chronic nasal congestion or a crooked partition between your nostrils (deviated nasal septum) may contribute to your snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSleep apnea.\u003c/strong\u003e Snoring also may be associated with obstructive sleep apnea. In this serious condition, your throat tissues partially or completely block your airway, preventing you from breathing. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eSleep apnea often is characterized by loud snoring followed by periods of silence when breathing stops or nearly stops. Eventually, this reduction or pause in breathing may signal you to wake up, and you may awaken with a loud snort or gasping sound. You may sleep lightly due to disrupted sleep. This pattern of breathing pauses may be repeated many times during the night. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeople with sleep apnea usually experience periods when breathing slows or stops at least five times during every hour of sleep. \u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eRisk factors\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eRisk factors that may contribute to snoring include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBeing a man.\u003c/strong\u003e Men are more likely to snore or have sleep apnea than are women. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBeing overweight.\u003c/strong\u003e People who are overweight or obese are more likely to snore or have obstructive sleep apnea. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaving a narrow airway.\u003c/strong\u003e Some people may have a long soft palate, or large tonsils or adenoids, which can narrow the airway and cause snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrinking alcohol.\u003c/strong\u003e Alcohol relaxes your throat muscles, increasing the risk of snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaving nasal problems.\u003c/strong\u003e If you have a structural defect in your airway, such as a deviated septum, or your nose is chronically congested, your risk of snoring is greater. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaving a family history of snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.\u003c/strong\u003e \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eComplications\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eHabitual snoring may be more than just a nuisance. Depending on the cause of your snoring, it may result in: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDaytime sleepiness \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eFrequent frustration or anger \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDifficulty concentrating \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eA greater risk of high blood pressure, heart conditions and stroke \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAn increased risk of behavior problems, such as aggression or learning problems, in children with obstructive sleep apnea \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAn increased risk of motor vehicle accidents due to lack of sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDisruption of bed partner's sleep \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003ePreparing for your appointment\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou're likely to first see your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, you may then be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating sleep disorders or an ear, nose and throat specialist. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause appointments can be brief, and because there's often a lot to talk about, it's a good idea to arrive well prepared. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat you can do\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWrite down any symptoms you're experiencing,\u003c/strong\u003e including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment. Ask your partner to describe what he or she hears or notices at night while you're sleeping.    \u003cp\u003eOr, better yet, ask your sleep partner to go with you to your appointment so that he or she can talk with your doctor about your symptoms. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMake a list of all medications,\u003c/strong\u003e as well as any vitamins or supplements that you're taking. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWrite down questions to ask\u003c/strong\u003e your doctor. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour time with your doctor may be limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. For snoring, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat makes me snore when I sleep? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eIs my snoring a sign of something more serious, such as sleep apnea? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat kinds of tests do I need? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat happens during a sleep test? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat treatments are available for snoring, and which do you recommend? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat types of side effects can I expect from treatment? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAre there any alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAre there any steps I can take on my own that will help my snoring? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eI have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAre there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting? \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat to expect from your doctor\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhen did you first begin snoring? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDo you snore every night or only once in a while? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDo you often wake up during the night? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDoes anything you do seem to improve your symptoms? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDoes your bed partner ever tell you that you have pauses or irregularities in your breathing during sleep? \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat you can do in the meantime\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile you're waiting to see your doctor, here are some tips you can try: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDon't drink alcohol or take sedatives before bed. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eTry over-the-counter nasal strips. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eSleep on your side, instead of your back. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eIf nasal congestion is an issue, try an over-the-counter decongestant for a day or two. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eTests and diagnosis\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo diagnose your condition, your doctor will review your signs and symptoms, and your medical history. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour doctor may ask your partner some questions about when and how you snore to help assess the severity of the problem. If your child snores, you'll be asked about the severity of your child's snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eImaging\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour doctor may request an imaging test, such as an X-ray, a computerized tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging, to check the structure of your airway for problems, such as a deviated septum. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSleep study\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eDepending on the severity of your snoring and other symptoms, your doctor may want to conduct a sleep study. Often, sleep studies may be done at home. However, depending upon your other medical problems and other sleep symptoms, you may need to stay overnight at a sleep center to undergo an in-depth analysis of your sleep habits by a team of specialists during a sleep study, called polysomnography. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn polysomnography, you're connected to many devices and observed overnight. During the sleep study, your brain waves, blood oxygen level, heart rate and breathing rate, sleep stages, and eye and leg movements will be recorded during your sleep. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen a home sleep study doesn't provide the needed information, polysomnography may be needed. \u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eTreatments and drugs\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo treat your condition, your doctor likely will first recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol close to bedtime and changing sleeping positions. If lifestyle changes don't eliminate snoring, your doctor may suggest: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOral appliances.\u003c/strong\u003e Oral appliances are form-fitting dental mouthpieces that help advance the position of your tongue and soft palate to keep your air passage open. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eIf you choose to use an oral appliance, visit your dental specialist at least once every six months during the first year, and then at least annually after that, to have the fit checked and to make sure that your condition isn't worsening. Excessive salivation, dry mouth, jaw pain and facial discomfort are possible side effects from wearing these devices. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContinuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).\u003c/strong\u003e This approach involves wearing a pressurized mask over your nose while you sleep. The mask is attached to a small pump that forces air through your airway, which keeps it open. CPAP (SEE-pap) eliminates snoring and treats sleep apnea. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eAlthough CPAP is the most reliable method of treating obstructive sleep apnea, and it's effective, some people find it uncomfortable or have trouble adjusting to the noise or feel of the machine. Your doctor may be able to make adjustments to the device if you're having trouble adjusting to the machine, such as adding a heated humidifier or nasal pillows, that might help make you more comfortable. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePalatal implants.\u003c/strong\u003e In this procedure, known as the pillar procedure, doctors inject braided strands of polyester filament into your soft palate, which stiffens it and reduces snoring. Palatal implants don't have any known serious side effects; however, the benefits and safety of the procedure are still being studied. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTraditional surgery.\u003c/strong\u003e In a procedure called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), you're given general anesthetics and your surgeon tightens and trims excess tissues from your throat \u0026mdash; a type of face-lift for your throat. The risks of this procedure include bleeding, infection, pain and nasal congestion. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLaser surgery.\u003c/strong\u003e In laser-assisted uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (LAUPPP), an outpatient surgery for snoring, your doctor uses a small hand-held laser beam to shorten the soft palate and remove your uvula. Removing excess tissue enlarges your airway and reduces vibration. You may need more than one session to get your snoring under control. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eLaser surgery and palatal implants aren't generally recommended as treatment for sleep apnea, because they haven't been proved effective for sleep apnea. Possible risks from these procedures include pain, infection, bleeding and nasal congestion. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRadiofrequency tissue ablation (somnoplasty).\u003c/strong\u003e In this outpatient procedure, you'll be given local anesthetic. Doctors use a low-intensity radiofrequency signal to shrink tissue in the soft palate to help reduce snoring. The effectiveness of this newer procedure needs further study. Generally, this procedure is less painful than other types of snoring surgery. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eLifestyle and home remedies\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo prevent or quiet snoring, try these tips: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you're overweight, lose weight.\u003c/strong\u003e People who are overweight may have extra tissues in the throat that contribute to snoring. Losing weight can help reduce snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSleep on your side.\u003c/strong\u003e Lying on your back allows your tongue to fall backward into your throat, narrowing your airway and partially obstructing airflow. Try sleeping on your side. If you find that you always end up on your back in the middle of the night, try sewing a tennis ball in the back of your pajama top. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRaise the head of your bed.\u003c/strong\u003e Raising the head of your bed by about four inches may help. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNasal strips.\u003c/strong\u003e Adhesive strips applied to your nose help many people increase the area of their nasal passage, enhancing their breathing. These strips aren't effective for people with sleep apnea, however. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTreat nasal congestion or obstruction.\u003c/strong\u003e Having allergies or a deviated septum can limit airflow through your nose. This forces you to breathe through your mouth, increasing the likelihood of snoring.    \u003cp\u003eDon't use an oral or spray decongestant for more than three days in a row for acute congestion unless directed to do so by your doctor. Long-term use of these medications can have a rebound effect and make your congestion worse. Ask your doctor about a prescription steroid spray if you have chronic congestion. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eTo correct a structural defect in your airway, such as a deviated septum, you may need surgery. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimit or avoid alcohol and sedatives.\u003c/strong\u003e Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages at least two hours before bedtime, and let your doctor know about your snoring before taking sedatives.    \u003cp\u003eSedatives and alcohol depress your central nervous system, causing excessive relaxation of muscles, including the tissues in your throat.\u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eAlternative medicine\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause snoring is such a common problem, there are numerous products available, such as nasal sprays or homeopathic therapies. However, most of the products haven't been proved effective in clinical trials. For example, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is marketed in a nose drop formula to treat snoring, but there's no evidence it has any effect on snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTherapies that might help ease your snoring include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDidgeridoo.\u003c/strong\u003e Playing the didgeridoo, a musical instrument that produces a droning sound, may help train muscles of the upper airway and lessen daytime sleepiness. Researchers have evaluated the use of the instrument by those with sleep apnea who complained about snoring.    \u003cp\u003eResearch has shown that those who played the instrument for about 25 minutes a day most days of the week experienced less daytime sleepiness \u0026mdash; a complication of sleep apnea and snoring. However, this research is preliminary and needs more study. Also, the same benefits haven't been found in studies of wind or brass instrument players. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSinging.\u003c/strong\u003e Singing may help improve muscle control of the soft palate and upper throat. One preliminary study found some decrease in snoring in participants who sang prescribed singing exercises for 20 minutes a day for three months. These participants all began snoring as adults, had no nasal problems and were not overweight. More study of this technique is needed. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='section'\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHead'\u003eCoping and support\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class='SectionHTML'\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf your partner is the one who's snoring, you may sometimes feel frustrated as well as fatigued. Suggest some of the home remedies mentioned, and if those don't help quiet your partner's nocturnal noisemaking, have your partner make a doctor's appointment. \u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e","doc_id":"CON-20031874","object_id":"b9889d5d-db15-40b8-a615-f4b5b15fd8f2","updated_at":"2012-11-07","meta_keywords":"","benefit_summary":"","sections":{"Definition":"\u003cp\u003eSnoring is the hoarse or harsh sound that occurs when your breathing is partially obstructed in some way while you're sleeping. Sometimes snoring may indicate a serious health condition. In addition, snoring can be a nuisance to your partner. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs many as half of adults snore sometimes. Snoring occurs when air flows past relaxed tissues in your throat, causing the tissues to vibrate as you breathe, which creates those irritating sounds. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol close to bedtime or sleeping on your side, can help stop snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition, medical devices and surgery are available that may reduce disruptive snoring. However, these aren't suitable or necessary for everyone who snores. \u003c/p\u003e","Symptoms":"\u003cp\u003eDepending on the cause of your snoring, your symptoms may include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eNoise during sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eExcessive daytime sleepiness \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDifficulty concentrating \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eSore throat \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eRestless sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eGasping or choking at night \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eHigh blood pressure \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eChest pain at night \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen to see a doctor\u003cbr /\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSee your doctor if:\u003c/strong\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eYour snoring is so loud it's disrupting your partner's sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eYou wake up choking or gasping \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese may indicate your snoring is caused by a more serious condition, such as obstructive sleep apnea. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf your child snores, ask your pediatrician about it. Children can have obstructive sleep apnea too. Nose and throat problems \u0026mdash; such as enlarged tonsils \u0026mdash; and obesity often can narrow a child's airway, which can lead to your child developing sleep apnea. Treating these conditions may help your child in many ways. \u003c/p\u003e","Causes":"\u003cp\u003eMany factors, such as the anatomy of your mouth and sinuses, alcohol consumption, allergies, a cold, and your weight, can lead to snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen you doze off and progress from a light sleep to a deep sleep, the muscles in the roof of your mouth (soft palate), tongue and throat relax. The tissues in your throat can relax enough that they partially block your airway and vibrate. And, the more narrowed your airway, the more forceful the airflow becomes. This causes tissue vibration to increase, which causes your snoring to grow louder. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe following conditions can affect the airway and cause snoring: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYour mouth anatomy.\u003c/strong\u003e Having a low, thick soft palate can narrow your airway. People who are overweight may have extra tissues in the back of their throat that may narrow their airways. Likewise, if the triangular piece of tissue hanging from the soft palate (uvula) is elongated, airflow can be obstructed and vibration increased. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlcohol consumption.\u003c/strong\u003e Snoring also can be brought on by consuming too much alcohol before bedtime. Alcohol relaxes throat muscles and decreases your natural defenses against airway obstruction. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNasal problems.\u003c/strong\u003e Chronic nasal congestion or a crooked partition between your nostrils (deviated nasal septum) may contribute to your snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSleep apnea.\u003c/strong\u003e Snoring also may be associated with obstructive sleep apnea. In this serious condition, your throat tissues partially or completely block your airway, preventing you from breathing. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eSleep apnea often is characterized by loud snoring followed by periods of silence when breathing stops or nearly stops. Eventually, this reduction or pause in breathing may signal you to wake up, and you may awaken with a loud snort or gasping sound. You may sleep lightly due to disrupted sleep. This pattern of breathing pauses may be repeated many times during the night. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeople with sleep apnea usually experience periods when breathing slows or stops at least five times during every hour of sleep. \u003c/p\u003e","Risk factors":"\u003cp\u003eRisk factors that may contribute to snoring include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBeing a man.\u003c/strong\u003e Men are more likely to snore or have sleep apnea than are women. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBeing overweight.\u003c/strong\u003e People who are overweight or obese are more likely to snore or have obstructive sleep apnea. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaving a narrow airway.\u003c/strong\u003e Some people may have a long soft palate, or large tonsils or adenoids, which can narrow the airway and cause snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrinking alcohol.\u003c/strong\u003e Alcohol relaxes your throat muscles, increasing the risk of snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaving nasal problems.\u003c/strong\u003e If you have a structural defect in your airway, such as a deviated septum, or your nose is chronically congested, your risk of snoring is greater. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHaving a family history of snoring or obstructive sleep apnea.\u003c/strong\u003e \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e","Complications":"\u003cp\u003eHabitual snoring may be more than just a nuisance. Depending on the cause of your snoring, it may result in: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDaytime sleepiness \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eFrequent frustration or anger \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDifficulty concentrating \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eA greater risk of high blood pressure, heart conditions and stroke \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAn increased risk of behavior problems, such as aggression or learning problems, in children with obstructive sleep apnea \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAn increased risk of motor vehicle accidents due to lack of sleep \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDisruption of bed partner's sleep \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e","Preparing for your appointment":"\u003cp\u003eYou're likely to first see your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, you may then be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating sleep disorders or an ear, nose and throat specialist. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause appointments can be brief, and because there's often a lot to talk about, it's a good idea to arrive well prepared. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat you can do\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWrite down any symptoms you're experiencing,\u003c/strong\u003e including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment. Ask your partner to describe what he or she hears or notices at night while you're sleeping.    \u003cp\u003eOr, better yet, ask your sleep partner to go with you to your appointment so that he or she can talk with your doctor about your symptoms. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMake a list of all medications,\u003c/strong\u003e as well as any vitamins or supplements that you're taking. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWrite down questions to ask\u003c/strong\u003e your doctor. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour time with your doctor may be limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. For snoring, some basic questions to ask your doctor include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat makes me snore when I sleep? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eIs my snoring a sign of something more serious, such as sleep apnea? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat kinds of tests do I need? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat happens during a sleep test? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat treatments are available for snoring, and which do you recommend? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat types of side effects can I expect from treatment? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAre there any alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAre there any steps I can take on my own that will help my snoring? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eI have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eAre there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting? \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat to expect from your doctor\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhen did you first begin snoring? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDo you snore every night or only once in a while? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDo you often wake up during the night? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDoes anything you do seem to improve your symptoms? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eWhat, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms? \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDoes your bed partner ever tell you that you have pauses or irregularities in your breathing during sleep? \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat you can do in the meantime\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile you're waiting to see your doctor, here are some tips you can try: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003eDon't drink alcohol or take sedatives before bed. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eTry over-the-counter nasal strips. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eSleep on your side, instead of your back. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003eIf nasal congestion is an issue, try an over-the-counter decongestant for a day or two. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e","Tests and diagnosis":"\u003cp\u003eTo diagnose your condition, your doctor will review your signs and symptoms, and your medical history. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour doctor may ask your partner some questions about when and how you snore to help assess the severity of the problem. If your child snores, you'll be asked about the severity of your child's snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eImaging\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eYour doctor may request an imaging test, such as an X-ray, a computerized tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging, to check the structure of your airway for problems, such as a deviated septum. \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSleep study\u003c/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eDepending on the severity of your snoring and other symptoms, your doctor may want to conduct a sleep study. Often, sleep studies may be done at home. However, depending upon your other medical problems and other sleep symptoms, you may need to stay overnight at a sleep center to undergo an in-depth analysis of your sleep habits by a team of specialists during a sleep study, called polysomnography. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn polysomnography, you're connected to many devices and observed overnight. During the sleep study, your brain waves, blood oxygen level, heart rate and breathing rate, sleep stages, and eye and leg movements will be recorded during your sleep. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen a home sleep study doesn't provide the needed information, polysomnography may be needed. \u003c/p\u003e","Treatments and drugs":"\u003cp\u003eTo treat your condition, your doctor likely will first recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol close to bedtime and changing sleeping positions. If lifestyle changes don't eliminate snoring, your doctor may suggest: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOral appliances.\u003c/strong\u003e Oral appliances are form-fitting dental mouthpieces that help advance the position of your tongue and soft palate to keep your air passage open. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eIf you choose to use an oral appliance, visit your dental specialist at least once every six months during the first year, and then at least annually after that, to have the fit checked and to make sure that your condition isn't worsening. Excessive salivation, dry mouth, jaw pain and facial discomfort are possible side effects from wearing these devices. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eContinuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).\u003c/strong\u003e This approach involves wearing a pressurized mask over your nose while you sleep. The mask is attached to a small pump that forces air through your airway, which keeps it open. CPAP (SEE-pap) eliminates snoring and treats sleep apnea. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eAlthough CPAP is the most reliable method of treating obstructive sleep apnea, and it's effective, some people find it uncomfortable or have trouble adjusting to the noise or feel of the machine. Your doctor may be able to make adjustments to the device if you're having trouble adjusting to the machine, such as adding a heated humidifier or nasal pillows, that might help make you more comfortable. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePalatal implants.\u003c/strong\u003e In this procedure, known as the pillar procedure, doctors inject braided strands of polyester filament into your soft palate, which stiffens it and reduces snoring. Palatal implants don't have any known serious side effects; however, the benefits and safety of the procedure are still being studied. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTraditional surgery.\u003c/strong\u003e In a procedure called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), you're given general anesthetics and your surgeon tightens and trims excess tissues from your throat \u0026mdash; a type of face-lift for your throat. The risks of this procedure include bleeding, infection, pain and nasal congestion. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e    \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLaser surgery.\u003c/strong\u003e In laser-assisted uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (LAUPPP), an outpatient surgery for snoring, your doctor uses a small hand-held laser beam to shorten the soft palate and remove your uvula. Removing excess tissue enlarges your airway and reduces vibration. You may need more than one session to get your snoring under control. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eLaser surgery and palatal implants aren't generally recommended as treatment for sleep apnea, because they haven't been proved effective for sleep apnea. Possible risks from these procedures include pain, infection, bleeding and nasal congestion. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRadiofrequency tissue ablation (somnoplasty).\u003c/strong\u003e In this outpatient procedure, you'll be given local anesthetic. Doctors use a low-intensity radiofrequency signal to shrink tissue in the soft palate to help reduce snoring. The effectiveness of this newer procedure needs further study. Generally, this procedure is less painful than other types of snoring surgery. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e","Lifestyle and home remedies":"\u003cp\u003eTo prevent or quiet snoring, try these tips: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you're overweight, lose weight.\u003c/strong\u003e People who are overweight may have extra tissues in the throat that contribute to snoring. Losing weight can help reduce snoring. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSleep on your side.\u003c/strong\u003e Lying on your back allows your tongue to fall backward into your throat, narrowing your airway and partially obstructing airflow. Try sleeping on your side. If you find that you always end up on your back in the middle of the night, try sewing a tennis ball in the back of your pajama top. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRaise the head of your bed.\u003c/strong\u003e Raising the head of your bed by about four inches may help. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNasal strips.\u003c/strong\u003e Adhesive strips applied to your nose help many people increase the area of their nasal passage, enhancing their breathing. These strips aren't effective for people with sleep apnea, however. \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTreat nasal congestion or obstruction.\u003c/strong\u003e Having allergies or a deviated septum can limit airflow through your nose. This forces you to breathe through your mouth, increasing the likelihood of snoring.    \u003cp\u003eDon't use an oral or spray decongestant for more than three days in a row for acute congestion unless directed to do so by your doctor. Long-term use of these medications can have a rebound effect and make your congestion worse. Ask your doctor about a prescription steroid spray if you have chronic congestion. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eTo correct a structural defect in your airway, such as a deviated septum, you may need surgery. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimit or avoid alcohol and sedatives.\u003c/strong\u003e Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages at least two hours before bedtime, and let your doctor know about your snoring before taking sedatives.    \u003cp\u003eSedatives and alcohol depress your central nervous system, causing excessive relaxation of muscles, including the tissues in your throat.\u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e","Alternative medicine":"\u003cp\u003eBecause snoring is such a common problem, there are numerous products available, such as nasal sprays or homeopathic therapies. However, most of the products haven't been proved effective in clinical trials. For example, MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is marketed in a nose drop formula to treat snoring, but there's no evidence it has any effect on snoring. \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTherapies that might help ease your snoring include: \u003c/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDidgeridoo.\u003c/strong\u003e Playing the didgeridoo, a musical instrument that produces a droning sound, may help train muscles of the upper airway and lessen daytime sleepiness. Researchers have evaluated the use of the instrument by those with sleep apnea who complained about snoring.    \u003cp\u003eResearch has shown that those who played the instrument for about 25 minutes a day most days of the week experienced less daytime sleepiness \u0026mdash; a complication of sleep apnea and snoring. However, this research is preliminary and needs more study. Also, the same benefits haven't been found in studies of wind or brass instrument players. \u003c/p\u003e    \u003c/li\u003e    \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSinging.\u003c/strong\u003e Singing may help improve muscle control of the soft palate and upper throat. One preliminary study found some decrease in snoring in participants who sang prescribed singing exercises for 20 minutes a day for three months. These participants all began snoring as adults, had no nasal problems and were not overweight. More study of this technique is needed. \u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e","Coping and support":"\u003cp\u003eIf your partner is the one who's snoring, you may sometimes feel frustrated as well as fatigued. Suggest some of the home remedies mentioned, and if those don't help quiet your partner's nocturnal noisemaking, have your partner make a doctor's appointment. \u003c/p\u003e"},"has_flash":false,"flash_content_url":null,"flash_content_height":null,"flash_content_width":null}