

Obstructive sleep apnea -associated snoring, however, is more serious.

So-called primary snoring that occurs more than three nights a week can be disruptive to partners, but is not usually seen as a health concern. It all depends on the type, severity and frequency of the snoring. This is why sleeping on your side can help. Another snoring factor is your sleep position-gravity’s effect on the throat narrows the airway when sleeping on your back. The tissue vibration increases as the airway narrows, causing the snoring to grow louder and louder.Ī number of factors can affect the airway and result in snoring, such as your mouth anatomy, being overweight, alcohol consumption, nasal congestion and even sleep deprivation, since it can lead to further throat relaxation. As we inhale and exhale, these tissues rattle and vibrate, resulting in sounds like a flag flapping and fluttering in the wind. The tissues in the back of the throat can relax enough that they partially block the airway. And it’s likely to get louder and more prevalent with age.Īccording to the Mayo Clinic, when we fall into a deep sleep, the muscles in the roof of the mouth (soft palate), tongue and throat relax.

However, if you are overweight, a middle-aged man or a postmenopausal woman, you are more likely to snore. In fact, it’s quite common, occurring in an about 57% of men and 40% of women. Other times it sounds like a buzz saw, getting closer and closer, paused by a moment of silence, before climaxing in an even louder snort or gasp for air. Sometimes it’s like a repetitive knock (or bang) on the door. Sometimes it’s occasional, a gentle, perhaps even peaceful, soft whistling. So, let’s take a closer look at common causes and health concerns. Sleep Cycle alarm clock > About Sleep > Snoring What is snoring, really?Ī better understanding of snoring-what it is and why it happens-can be an important step to better sleep and health for both you and your partner.
