There are many causes of snoring. But the one thing that all will agree upon is the fact that snoring is the result of a blockage of the air passage to the lungs.
Even though this condition affects millions of people, it is somehow not considered a serious problem except for maybe the one who has to endure the noise made by the snorer.
It has become a sort of family joke among family members who have to suffer through the snoring. As a “victim” myself, I often joke about how my husband would be “conducting “ an “orchestra” while he’s sleeping.
The noise he makes when he snores isn’t restricted to only one type of tune (if you can call the annoying sound of snoring a tune). Sometimes it can sound like a gurgle and sometimes it can sound like he’s choking. But all the time it can keep me awake all night especially when the snoring escalates. I would kick his legs and he would be quiet for awhile before the “music” begins again.
What really are the causes of snoring?
There are several causes of snoring. If a person snores with his mouth closed then the problem may be caused by his tongue. His tongue has collapsed into his windpipe and causes partial blockage at the back of his throat. When air enters through his nose, the uvula would vibrate and cause the snoring.
If a person snores with his mouth opened then the problem may be caused by his nose and the tissues in his throat. His nose may be blocked due to sinus problems or a cold or the flu. So when air enters his mouth, the uvula would vibrate due to the blockage in his throat.
A mild problem of snoring is when a person snores while sleeping on his back. A change in sleeping position is all that is necessary to solve the problem.
However, if a person snores while sleeping in any position at all, then a consultation with the doctor may be necessary to pinpoint the cause of snoring.
Is there a cure for snoring?
Short of surgery, snoring is quite a permanent problem that can be alleviated with stop snoring devices that are available in the market now. There are devices that need to be worn in the mouth and there are devices which need to be inserted into the nose.
Choose the one that suits the snorer’s condition. If he has a sinus problem, a nasal dilator or a nasal strip can do the job very well. If he snores while sleeping on his back, then an extra pillow on his back to prevent him from lying on his back is all that is necessary to stop the snoring.
And if all efforts fail to stop the snoring, you can always get earplugs or opt to sleep in separate rooms.
