Things That Can Worsen Snoring

Snoring is considered fairly common, but for some it’s more than just a minor inconvenience. If you’ve ever seen those cartoons where a person snoring wakes up the entire house, and you live with a snorer, you know that the cartoon isn’t far from the truth.Snoring in Alabaster, AL can disrupt—not only the snorer—but everyone in the household. If you or your sleep partner are looking for answers as to how to solve a snoring problem, here are some common factors that can worsen snoring, and how seeking professional help can make a difference.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious condition in which breathing temporarily stops during sleep, often accompanied by loud snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea, which is the most common form, occurs when throat muscles relax excessively, blocking airflow. That’s a scary thought, right? Well, this condition not only worsens snoring but also affects overall health, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and “unexplained” daytime tiredness.

Being Overweight

Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can narrow your airway, making it harder to breathe freely while sleeping. This restriction increases the likelihood of snoring. It’s impossible to control where excess weight will be distributed, so the best solution is to consider weight as a factor if you do experience problematic snoring.

Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol, especially close to bedtime, relaxes the muscles in your throat and tongue, causing partial airway obstruction and louder snoring. Avoiding alcohol in the evening can help mitigate these effects.

Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion from allergies, colds, or sinus issues forces you to breathe through your mouth, which increases the risk of snoring. In a case like this, the snoring will likely be temporary, and it’ll be over once the nasal congestion clears.

Sleeping Position

Sleeping on your back can cause your tongue and soft palate to collapse toward the back of your throat, partially obstructing the airway and worsening snoring. Sleeping on your side is often a simple and effective solution.

If snoring persists or is linked to symptoms like gasping or daytime fatigue, it may be time to consult a sleep center specializing in sleep apnea in Alabaster, AL. Addressing the root causes can lead to better sleep and overall health.