Snoring can be caused by many different factors. Some factors that may be causing you to snore include; lifestyle behaviors, genetics, and the anatomy of your body. Continue reading to find out a few causes of snoring and a few risk factors that may increase your risk of snoring!
Risk Factors
Being Overweight
- Individuals who are overweight have a higher risk of snoring. When there is extra tissue in the neck it can make the airway size smaller and increase the risk of the airway collapsing, which causes snoring. Losing weight could potentially decrease snoring or even eliminate it altogether.
Smoking
- Smoking could increase the frequency of your snoring. Smoking cigarettes causes inflammation in your airways which can decrease the airflow while you are sleeping. Quitting smoking can improve your sleep quality and decrease the frequency of your snoring.
Alcohol Consumption
- Having a few drinks before bedtime can increase your risk of snoring. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat which causes you to snore. Alcohol can also negatively affect your sleep schedule and your quality of sleep.
A Family History of Snoring
- If you have a family member that suffers from sleep apnea, then you might be at risk of developing sleep apnea or other sleep disorders.
Why Do I Snore?
Sleep Related Breathing Disorders
- Snoring could be an indication that you have a sleep disorder that affects your breathing. A few common sleep related breathing disorders are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and sleep-related hypoxemia disorder. Your physician can help you get a correct diagnosis and help you start the correct treatment to help reduce your symptoms of these sleep disorders.
- For more information about sleep apnea treatments, check out our blog all about treatments! We also have information about our sleep testing and treatment options available on our website!
Sleep Position
- Your sleep matters when it comes to the topic of snoring. The position that you sleep in can affect your overall sleep and your frequency of snoring. Snoring can occur more often when you are sleeping on your back in a supine position. Laying on your side in a lateral position may decrease the amount of snoring while sleeping.
Blocked Airways
- Having a stuffy nose that is caused by allergies or infections can have an effect on your snoring. A blocked nasal airway reduces the flow of air which can cause the airway to collapse. Effectively treating nasal congestion may help with snoring.
Snoring is very common and is treatable. Understanding the ultimate cause of your snoring can help you make lifestyle changes or get the correct treatment to help you with your snoring. If you have any questions about sleep apnea, treatments, or snoring, contact us today!