Snoring

Snoring is characterized as a loud, harsh breathing sound that occurs while sleeping. Sleeping on your back may make you more likely to snore, same with allergies or colds, as could the use of alcohol or other depressants that relax the throat muscles.

According to the American Academy of Sleep, “about 40 percent of adult men and 24 percent of adult women are habitual snorers.” [Source: Sleepeducation.com]

Light snoring may only be a bother to your bed partner however heavy snoring may indicate the presence of a more serious condition, sleep apnea.

Heavy snoring occurs when there is an obstruction in the airway preventing correct air flow to the lungs. Air flow can be interrupted by a number of factors; bulky throat tissue, poor muscle tone, a long uvula or soft palate, obstructed nasal passages.

Obstructions can cause serious health conditions including disruption of breathing during sleep, and strain on the heart. A poor night’s sleep as a result of snoring can lead to other health conditions that interfere with a person’s quality of life and may be a sign of Sleep Apnea.