If you snore, then both you and your significant other can end up sleep deprived. How do you stop snoring? In serious cases, we may recommend an oral appliance. However, you can often help reduce your risk of snoring by making a few simple lifestyle changes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snoring
Question: What causes a person to snore?
Answer: Snoring occurs when the soft tissue in the throat and mouth partially obstruct airflow. As air is forced through, the tissues vibrate, creating that loud, obnoxious, and grating sound. This issue can often act as a warning sign of obstructive sleep apnea, which leads to sleep deprivation and over time, poor oral health.
Question: Do my sleeping habits impact my risk?
Answer: Yes, the way you sleep could be an issue. For example, sleeping on your back can cause a patient to snore. Instead, we recommend sleeping on your side. We also suggest keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and free from distractions, such as TVs or computers. We also recommend maintaining a regular sleep schedule, which means going to bed and waking up at the same times every day.
Question: Can obesity be a factor?
Answer: Yes. For this reason, we often suggest obese patients lose weight through diet and exercise. Often, this lifestyle change can help improve sleep.
Question: Should I avoid alcohol before going to bed?
Answer: Yes. While alcohol definitely can make you feel sleepy, it can also prevent you from reaching REM sleep, leading to poor, frequently interrupted rest. You should only drink water before going to bed. Avoid alcohol and drinks containing caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or soda. If you have any questions about snoring or sleep apnea, then please contact our office today.
