TIRED OF SNORING? HERE'S HOW TO STOP IT
Affecting over 40% of UK adults, snoring is more than just a night-time nuisance. Persistent snoring can impact both your health and relationship.
While occasional snoring may seem harmless, persistent or loud snoring can disrupt sleep patterns, lead to daytime drowsiness, and even indicate potential health concerns like Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).
If you share a bed, snoring can take a toll on your partner’s quality of sleep as well, leaving both of you feeling tired and irritable.
If you’re fed up of feeling groggy or constantly apologising to your partner, there’s good news. You don’t have to put up with snoring forever.
Why do we snore?
Snoring occurs when airflow is partially blocked as it moves through your nose and throat during sleep due to your lower jaw dropping back. This obstruction causes the surrounding tissues to vibrate, leading to the all-too-familiar sound.
But why does this blockage happen in the first place? Several factors can contribute to snoring, each with its own underlying cause. Here are a few common causes of snoring:
Sleep position: Sleeping on your back causes the base of your tongue and soft palate to collapse to the back of your throat. This partially blocks the airway and leads to snoring.
Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle choices increase the likelihood of snoring. Drinking alcohol, especially close to bedtime, relaxes the muscles in your throat. This makes it easier for the airway to become partially blocked. Smoking and certain types of medications can also have an impact.
Nasal congestion and allergies: You may notice that snoring tends to get worse when you have a cold or seasonal allergies. When nasal passages are blocked, it forces you to breathe through your mouth. This leads to increased vibrations.
Weight: Carrying excess weight, especially around the neck area, can contribute to snoring by putting pressure on the airway. Fatty tissue around the neck can reduce the diameter of the airway, making it more susceptible to partial obstruction as the muscles relax.
When is snoring serious?
Persistent, loud snoring can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).
OSA causes the airway to collapse repeatedly throughout the night, disrupting breathing and sleep patterns.
Signs that snoring might be a symptom of OSA include:
- Loud snoring followed by choking or gasping sounds
- Pauses in breathing while sleeping
- Daytime drowsiness, fatigue, or irritability
Why is curing snoring important?
Snoring can have serious implications for your health, well-being, and relationships.
Snoring disrupts sleep for both the snorer and their partner, leading to fragmented, low-quality rest. Over time, poor sleep quality affects mood, concentration, and energy levels, making everyday life more challenging.
As well as these affects being reduced, you’ll potentially see an improved relationship with your partner once you’re both able to get a better night’s sleep.
If your snoring is a sign of OSA, you’re more at risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, and increased risk of stroke. Reducing snoring may help lower these risks.
Sleepwell: A custom solution for snoring
If nothing seems to be stopping your snoring, a custom anti-snoring device (Mandibular Advancement Splint) might be what you need.
A standout solution is the Sleepwell, a comfortable, custom-fit appliance designed to reduce your snoring.
The Sleepwell is the most clinically proven mandibular advancement splint (MAS) for the treatment of snoring and mild to moderate OSA. It works by holding the jaw slightly forward, preventing the airway from collapsing. This in turn reduces your snoring.
Unlike other anti-snoring appliances which can be uncomfortable, the Sleepwell has a soft inner lining for optimum comfort.
With 98% of patients approving of the Sleepwell, it’s the most patient-friendly MAS on the market!
Enjoy a quieter, healthier night’s sleep
Snoring doesn’t have to be a constant part of your life.
Understanding the causes and recognising when it’s serious will allow you to take control of your sleep health.
Ready to reclaim restful nights? Find a Sleepwell dentist near you to learn how a personalised anti-snoring solution can make all the difference