Snoring is a mystery to many people. It can affect your relationship with your sleeping partner, who may eventually grow exhausted with losing sleep to the noise, and it might affect your own quality of sleep in the long-run. Yet, many people mistake snoring as a normal part of their sleeping pattern, especially if they’ve tried unsuccessfully to stop. If nasal strips, sinus-clearing products, and other home remedies fail to help you stop snoring, then you might find relief with a careful examination and custom appliance from your dentist.
What Causes Snoring?
The sound of snoring indicates a partial airway blockage when you sleep, usually caused by excessive or abnormally-sized oral tissues (i.e., enlarged tonsils or the base of your tongue). When you snore, your body has to work harder for a reduced amount of oxygen, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular problems, like heart disease and stroke.
How to Stop
The trick to stop mild cases of snoring is to keep your airway clear as you sleep. To alleviate your condition, try one or more of the following;
- Sleep on your side—If you sleep on your back, your airway is more likely to clog. If you sleep on your stomach, you can strain the muscles in your neck, which might exacerbate the problem.
- Exercise often—Daily exercise is universally advisable; besides helping you sleep more soundly, it will also help you lose weight, which can significantly reduce your risk of snoring and developing sleep disorders, like obstructive sleep apnea.
- Skip the sleep aids—Some sleep aids are highly-effective at allowing you to sleep more soundly, but they can also cause your muscles and tissues to over-relax, and may contribute to increased snoring. The same is true for drinking alcohol up to four hours before going to bed.
Learn More About How to Stop Snoring
If you snore constantly, then it may be a symptom of a deeper disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea. To learn more about how to stop snoring and treat sleep apnea, schedule an appointment or initial consultation by calling Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI today at (248) 852-1820.
