Livonia, MI, Snoring
Whether snoring wakes you up in the middle of the night, or wakes up your loved one who is attempting to get a restful night of sleep next to you, it can cause more harm than you realize. If you know you snore or suspect it may be the cause of daily fatigue, schedule an appointment with our team, so we can discuss treatment options.
What is Snoring?
Snoring is the loud sound that occurs when your airways become partially blocked during sleep. The blockage happens when the muscles in the back of your throat, and the soft tissues they support, become too relaxed. As they make contact and partially obstruct your breathing, the tissues vibrate against one another and you struggle to take in sufficient air.
Why do I Snore?
You may snore for a variety of reasons. The relaxing of the muscles in your throat can simply be the result of your genetic makeup and the shape of your mouth and throat. However, consider the following additional reasons that may contribute to snoring:
- You may consume certain substances before bed, such as alcohol, which relax muscles that would usually remain active
- Chronic congestion and sinus problems may contribute to blocked or narrowed air passages
- Being overweight may put pressure against your neck, blocking your air flow
Is Snoring Really a Problem?
You may not realize that your snoring is waking you up during the night, or that it is waking your loved one. If you’re not quite convinced you should seek treatment for snoring, consider some of its negative impacts:
- Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder is often associated with excessive snoring. When your throat muscles become even more relaxed, they collapse and temporarily cut off your air intake. Sleep apnea can lead to more severe health risks. If you snore loudly, seeking treatment to determine if you have sleep apnea can significantly change your health for the better.
- Second-Hand Snoring: If you’re sleeping and snoring next to someone, you may cause them harm, too, by depriving them of sleep. Your partner may experience daytime fatigue, aches and pains, memory problems, fibromyalgia, depression, and even hearing loss. A Mayo Clinic study shows that sleep partners of snorers awakened an average of 21 times each hour, while the snorer wakes about 27 times per hour. In some cases, the snorer denies having a problem, and this can lead to frustration for both people.
Can You Treat Snoring?
Snoring aids and snoring remedies can help you and your partner achieve a restful night’s sleep. You may require an oral appliance that helps your airways remain open. Or, we may be able to offer you some advice on lifestyle changes that promote better breathing while sleeping. Visit our offices and discuss your snoring problem with Dr. Stewart who can then devise a treatment plan.
