Why do I snore?

Have you ever been startled awake by the sound of a pneumatic drill, only to realize the noise was coming from you? Snoring can interrupt our sleep and that of those around us, but why does it happen?

When we sleep, the muscles in our throat and mouth relax. In snorers, these relaxed tissues sag into the windpipe, partially blocking it. As we breathe in and out, air is forced over and around these tissues, making them flap and vibrate—often noisily.

Snoring affects around 51 percent of men and 40 percent of women, and you are more likely to snore if you are overweight, smoke, drink alcohol, take sleep medication, or sleep on your back—all of which can overrelax the throat muscles during sleep. Those with allergies or frequent sinus infections may also be more prone to snoring, as a blocked nose further restricts airflow.

Although disruptive, snoring in itself isn’t dangerous unless it’s a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a potentially serious condition that requires medical treatment.

The mechanics of snoring

If the airway is fully open during sleep, breathing is normal and snoring does not occur. The main tissues that disturb airflow and cause snoring are the nasal passageways, the soft palate, and the tongue.

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MIND AND BODY | Why do I snore?

SNORING QUICK FIXES

• Sleep on your side to keep airways more open—a pregnancy pillow may help you stay in position.

• A wedge pillow under the neck raises the head and prevents throat muscles from sagging too much.

• A nasal spray can reduce any congestion in your nose and sinuses.

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