TRACING THE ORIGIN OF THE SNORE
Generally, snoring is caused by a blockage in the passageway between the nose and the throat. Snoring can also be attributed to having too much throat or nasal tissue. The tongue's position can also disrupt normal breathing. Since snoring has the potential of taking away a relaxing sleep, it is certainly crucial that you identify the source. Pinpointing the cause will be greatly helpful in analyzing the appropriate mode of treatment. Aside from that, it is also essential that we assess if the cause for our snoring is either within or beyond our control. Common causes for snoring include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Genetics. Some physical and biological characteristics that may lead to snoring can be inherited from one generation to another. These can include a cleft palate, narrowness of the throat, enlargement of the adenoids, and others.
- Physical characteristics. Some physical attributes, whether inherited or acquired, can also lead to snoring. Examples of these are long uvula, soft palate, large tonsils, long tongue, and deviated nasal septum, among many others.
- Age. The older a person gets, the higher the possibility of developing habitual snoring. Aging leads to narrowing of the throat and decreasing of the muscle tone in the throat. According to recent studies, severe obstructive snoring is more common among people in middle age and beyond. If not treated, the frequency and severity of snoring will more likely increase proportionately with age.
- Sex. The narrower air passages of men make them more susceptible to habitual snoring.
- Allergies and infections. Because of obstructed airways, inhalation becomes a problem. A vacuum is created in the throat, causing the likelihood for snoring.
- Weight. The probability of developing habitual snoring can be increased by fatty tissues and poor muscle tone.
- History. A smoker and even a person who is exposed to second-hand smoke has greater chances of becoming a habitual snorer.
- Alcohol and medications. Alcoholic drinks and some medications lead to increased relaxation of muscles, causing snoring. Tranquilizers and sleeping pills help induce snoring.
- Sleeping position. A flat on the back sleeping position paves the way for your throat to be relaxed and to be able to block your airway.
Several experts also infer that how you snore reveals why you snore. If your mouth is closed while you snore, then you probably have an abnormality with your mouth. You should ask a doctor to examine your throat if you snore with your mouth open.
If you snore only on your back, then what you have is just a mild condition. Some changes in the way you live might be enough. On the other hand, if you snore on all sleeping positions, then you are already suffering from a severe case of snoring which may need a more complex type of treatment. Keeping a sleeping diary is also highly encouraged.