What causes snoring?

Snoring is generally caused by a narrowing of the airway during sleep. This narrowing can result from extra tissue in the throat resulting from obesity, pregnancy, or genetics, or from nasal congestion or nasal deformities. Snoring can also be the result of tongue or throat muscles that are too relaxed as a result of alcohol, muscle relaxants, and other medications. Long-term smoking and the normal aging process can also relax these muscles.

What are some snoring solutions?

For mild snoring, you might try losing weight, sleeping on your side rather than your back, avoiding alcohol and sedatives.  If excessive tissue in the airway is the problem, your doctor may recommend surgery to reduce the amount of tissue. This procedure can be done in the doctor’s office using local anesthesia.

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

Snoring, restless sleep and daytime fatigue could all be symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops for ten seconds or more, repeatedly throughout the night.   Obstructive sleep apnea is usually caused when the tissue at the back of the throat collapses, narrowing the airway.  Treatment for sleep apnea may include the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), oral appliance therapy, surgery, weight management, or lifestyle changes.