Although snoring seems to be quite prevalent, it is actually an abnormal sleep phenomenon. Statistics show that approximately 45% of adults experience snoring from time to time while a significant 25% of the population are reported to be habitual snorers.
Snoring may affect people in any age group. However, men seem to be more prone to experiencing this condition. Although snoring may not be as serious as the other medical conditions, it should be given attention, as it not only has certain health implications, but it may also be emotionally and socially disturbing.
Snoring takes place when there are physical impediments that affect the flow of air through the mouth and nose during sleep. The unusual sound produced is mainly due to the vibration of the throat muscles as the air passageway is blocked. The obstruction may be in any of the following areas:
• Nasal passages. Blockage in the nasal passages may result in difficulty breathing. Extra effort is necessary to breathe. With this, the soft tissues of the throat may collapse, which in turn, causes snoring. Given this, people with sinus infections, colds, or allergic rhinitis are subject to snoring.
• Throat. Some people, by nature, have very relaxed or soft throat muscles which collapse easily. As the muscles collapse, the air passage narrows, resulting in the unusual sound produced as someone snores. Furthermore, those who have bulky throat muscles are also prone to snoring since the air passage is narrower than ideal.
• Opening from the nose to the throat. A long palate or even long uvula
significantly narrows this particular opening. Also, given the fact that the tissues and muscles are situated closely together, they may touch as one breathes.
Other deformities in the structure of the mouth and surrounding areas may also lead to snoring. For instance, a malpositioned jaw may negatively affect the overall movement of the mouth leading to muscular tension that could result in unusual flapping of the other mouth and throat tissues.
Indeed, snoring can be a disturbing condition that requires medical attention. It
can also be an indication of a more serious medical condition, such as sleep apnea. Though serious medical conditions are not always present, one should seek medical advice when symptoms are observed to rule out, or get treatment for, any such serious conditions. Furthermore, since snoring occurs during sleep, it may prevent a person from getting a good night's rest, which he may or may not even be conscious of. This explains why some snorers complain of drowsiness or headaches during the day, which are caused by disturbed sleep.
Snoring is often observed, not by the snorer himself, but by the people around him. Snoring can adversely impact close relationships, as the person who sleeps near a snorer may also suffer from disturbed sleep.
Treatment for snoring comes in various forms and the results may vary. It is advisable to consult a doctor to identify which treatment course is most suitable.
