Snoring
Updated: 03.08.2023
Approved by: General Practitioner, Alice Pan
Snoring is a common condition that affects many people and is typically not a cause for concern. However, if snoring becomes a problem, there are measures you can take to help alleviate it.
Causes
Snoring occurs when the tongue, mouth, throat, or airways in the nose vibrate as you breathe during sleep. Several factors can contribute to snoring, including:
- Overweight or obesity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Sleeping on your back
In some cases, snoring may be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as sleep apnea, which occurs when the airways become temporarily blocked during sleep.
Managing snoring with lifestyle changes
Simple lifestyle modifications can be effective in reducing or stopping snoring. Consider the following steps:
- Weight management: If you are overweight, losing weight can help reduce snoring.
- Sleep position: Try sleeping on your side. You can use techniques like taping or stitching a tennis ball to the back of your sleepwear or invest in a special pillow or bed wedge to help keep you on your side.
- Consider your partner: If your snoring affects your partner's sleep, suggest they use earplugs as a temporary solution.
Avoiding certain habits can also contribute to reducing snoring:
- Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen snoring by irritating the airways and causing congestion.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
- Avoid sleeping pills: Sleeping pills can sometimes contribute to snoring.
When to seek medical advice
If lifestyle changes do not alleviate your snoring or if it significantly impacts your life or your partner's sleep quality, it is advisable to consult a GP. They can assess your situation and provide appropriate guidance.
During your appointment, the GP will examine your mouth and nose to identify any underlying issues that may be causing the snoring. It can be helpful to bring a partner who can describe the nature of your snoring.
Treatment options
The treatment for snoring depends on the underlying cause. Your doctor may recommend the following options:
- Mandibular advancement device: A device worn in the mouth that brings the tongue forward, helping to prevent it from blocking the back of the throat.
- Chin strap or vestibular shield: These devices aim to keep the mouth closed or promote nasal breathing during sleep.
- Nasal dilators or strips: Special devices or strips that hold the nose open, allowing for improved airflow.
- Nasal sprays: Sprays that reduce swelling in the nasal passages, helping to clear the airways.
Surgical interventions may be considered if other treatments prove ineffective. However, it's important to note that surgery for snoring is not widely available on the NHS, and its success is not guaranteed.
Seeking help
If you experience excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping or choking noises during sleep, or your snoring is causing significant distress, you may have sleep apnea, a potentially serious condition. In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
