Snoring is one of the most common sleep problems in the United States. People snore when the soft tissues of the upper airway vibrate as you breathe during sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, an estimated 90 million adults in the United States snore.
There are many factors that can contribute to snoring and this can be a warning sign for serious sleep disorders including obstructive sleep apnea. We’ve put together a list of some of the top contributors that lead to snoring and ways to reduce its effects.
An estimated 50% of those that snore also suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. These tips can help to reduce snoring. That said, they are not a replacement for sleep apnea treatment. If you think you may have obstructive sleep apnea, schedule a visit with Dr. Bogrow to find the treatment that will help you to reclaim your sleep.

Sleep Position

One major factor that can contribute to snoring is your sleep position. If you tend to sleep on your back, it may be one of the reasons you snore. When you sleep on your back, your tongue can collapse to the back of your throat, interfering with your breathing and causing you to snore. Some may find relief from snoring by sleeping on their side. Others may snore in any position.
Heavy snoring, regardless of your sleeping position, is a sign that you should get tested for obstructive sleep apnea.

Weight

Your weight is another factor that may be contributing to your snoring. Obesity can cause extra tissue to develop around your neck which can then constrict your throat and lead to snoring. Weight loss is definitely part of the answer for treating this kind of snoring. That said, losing weight is easier said than done and those that snore due to being overweight are at a higher risk of also having a sleeping disorder like sleep apnea.
While losing extra weight should be the goal in the long term, seeking treatment to treat snoring and sleep apnea should not be put off. Improving sleep quality will not only help you reduce other health risks, it can even help you lose weight. Getting the quality sleep you need will help you to think more clearly and it can improve your metabolism.

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products can lead to problems that impede sleep quality. When you smoke, it can cause tissue inflammation in your throat. According to a study performed by Dr. Karl Franklin from the University Hospital in Umeå, Sweden, both smokers and ex-smokers were more likely to suffer from habitual snoring than non-smokers. Additionally, non-smokers were more likely to suffer from habitual snoring if they were exposed to daily smoking from someone else in their home.
There is a multitude of health benefits for those that are able to quit smoking. It’s no easy task to quit smoking. That being said, quitting will not only improve your sleep quality, it may even help your housemates snore less as well.

Alcohol

For many Americans, it’s completely normal to enjoy an alcoholic beverage. A glass of red wine can even have a positive effect on your cardiovascular system. But alcohol can also have many detrimental effects, especially when consumed in excess. Alcohol is classified as a depressant and can work as a muscle relaxer for your throat. When alcohol is consumed before going to bed, your throat can relax more than normal. These relaxed throat muscles constrict the airway and can cause you to snore.
This can cause people that would not normally snore to do so and can create a potentially serious health risk for those that already habitually snore. If you suffer from habitual snoring, you may have obstructive sleep apnea. Getting diagnosed and treated can have major positive effects on both your quality of sleep and your quality of life,

Your Sleep Apnea Dentist in Southfield

At Bogrow and Associates Dental Center for Sleep Apnea and Snoring, we understand the importance of quality sleep. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to major health complications including hypertension and heart disease.

Schedule Your Visit Today!

If you habitually snore, you may have sleep apnea. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Bogrow today and he will work with you to find the treatment that’s best for your specific needs. Call us today or visit our website to learn how Bogrow and Associates can get you the sleep you deserve.