Snoring – FAQ’s
Who gets snoring?
Almost every person is likely to snore at one time or another. It has been found in all age groups.
Habitual snoring has been found in about 24% of adult women and 40% of adult men.
The rate of snoring in children is reported to be 10% to 12%. Both men and women are more likely to snore as they age. Men, however, become less likely to snore after the age of 70.
Snoring appears to run in families. It is more common in people who are obese. There is a greater amount of fat in the back of the throat that vibrates as they sleep. Nasal obstruction increases the risk of snoring. It is also common in people who drink alcohol, use muscle relaxers, use drugs and smoke.
How do I know if I have snoring and when to seek medical advice?
It is difficult for you to know on your own. Your bed partner, who hears, informs about your snoring. Snoring should not disrupt your quality of sleep. If your sleep is affected, then it may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea.
You need to visit a sleep expert if you snore regularly or loudly. Even if you snore less loudly, you may want to see an expert if you find yourself awake at night or sleepy during the day.
Seeing a sleep expert about your snoring can be advantage for both of you. For you, snoring may indicate another health problem, such as obstructive sleep apnea, nasal obstruction or obesity. For your partner, your seeking medical advice about your condition may result in being able to get a restful night of sleep.
What are the complications?
Habitual snoring may be more than just an annoyance and a cause of daytime sleepiness. If snoring caused by obstructive sleep apnea is untreated, it may raise lifetime risk of developing health problems such as high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke. In children, obstructive sleep apnea may increase their risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
When snoring should be treated?
Snoring can deprive the person’s full night rest. If a person experiences excessive daytime sleepiness due to snoring, he/she should consult a physician for examination. In addition to medical problems, snoring can also cause restlessness and sleepless nights for other people in the household. Therefore, snoring should be treated immediately after the diagnosis by the physician.
How to deal with a snorer?
Snoring from someone in the same room can prevent you from getting a good night sleep.
- Avoid taking naps during the day which will make you more exhausted at night and help you fall asleep easier.
- Wear earplugs to filter out the noise.
- Exercise during the day so you'll be more exhausted by the time you go to sleep and will fall asleep faster.
- Make a sleeping arrangement in such a way that the snorer and you sleep in different rooms.
