Snoring can be an embarrassing and frustrating problem that affects relationships and sleep health.   It results from vibrations due to narrowing and fluttering in the throat.   In some cases, snoring maybe a sign of obstructive sleep apnea which if untreated, can have significant negative health consequences.

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Many things can worsen or cause snoring including

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• Nasal congestion

• Obesity

• Smoking

• Alcohol

• Presence of enlarged tonsils, adenoids. 

• Irregular sleep or sleep deprivation

• Facial, mouth, throat anatomy

• Position of sleep.  Sleeping on your back can often worsen snoring.

 

You can try these to see if your snoring improves (Basically, treat the above issues)

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• Nasal congestion.  You can try otc nasal steroid like fluticasone or nasal strips/cones.  Nasal surgery maybe appropriate.

• Obesity.  Weight loss.

• Smoking.  Smoking causes increased nose and throat inflammation.  Quit smoking.

• Alcohol.  Alcohol worsens mouth/throat relaxation during sleep.  Avoid drinking alcohol 3-4 hrs before bed.

• Presence of enlarged tonsils, adenoids.  Surgical removal maybe necessary.

• Irregular sleep or sleep deprivation.  Maintain regular sleep schedule every day.  Excessive sleepiness or irregular sleep can worsen snoring.

• Facial, nose, mouth, throat anatomy.   Evaluation by a ENT airway specialist can locate the problem. 

• Position of sleep.  Elevating the head of the bed with an adjustable bed, wedge pillow.  Side sleeping, bumper belt. 
   

Procedures to treat snoring.

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Oral appliances to treat snoring.

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