Who hasn't already been bothered by snoring? Whether it is mildly disruptive or just plain aggravating, it's good to know that solutions exist!

Why do people snore?

Snoring is a very common problem. Most people will experience it at one time or another, either as a spectator or as the key actor. It occurs in roughly 44% of men and 28% of women between the ages of 30 and 60. Snoring results from vibration of the soft tissue at the back of the throat (which relaxes during sleep) when the person breathes in. It can also occur when a person breathes out.

The Chinese consider snoring as a sign of good health, but for most people, snoring is an inconvenience and can significantly compromise quality of life. Many people who snore are unaware of it. However, the problem can sometimes be impossible to ignore, especially when it causes discomfort, sleep problems, chronic fatigue or, even worse, relationship difficulties!

This problem can be related to a number of factors, including:

• sleep apnea
• sleep positions
• allergies
• a chronic respiratory disorder (asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema)
• nasal congestion
• being overweight
• pregnancy
• distinctive anatomy (narrow nasal passages or large tonsils, tongue or soft palate)
• alcohol consumption

How can snoring be prevented?

Certain habits can predispose you to snoring. If you’re prone to snoring, here are a few tips that could help:

• Stop smoking.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid sleeping pills (be extra careful not to combine them with alcohol).
• Avoid alcohol and heavy meals just before bedtime.
• Avoid sleeping on your back.
• Use the appropriate pillow.
• Maintain healthy sleeping habits.
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom during winter.

How to treat a snoring problem

The treatment for snoring depends on the causes, severity, and consequences. The causes at the root of the problem must first be determined. Then, the appropriate measures to remedy the problem must be put forward.

In some cases, the solution can be as simple as using nasal strips. Worn on the nose at bedtime, these strips are drug-free and work mechanically from the outside of the nose, opening the nasal passages and making it easier to breathe as you sleep.  

If your snoring problem is severe or doesn’t respond to various accessible treatments, speak to a doctor or specialist like an otorhinolaryngologist to see if there’s a medical reason for your snoring. Potential solutions can then be considered, such as:

• taking medication (i.e. for allergies)
• the use of a continuous positive airway pressure device, commonly called CPAP (in the case of sleep apnea)
• wearing a dental prosthesis
• surgery, and
• radio frequency treatment

Don't let snoring affect the quality of your sleep or your partner's. Don't hesitate to speak to your pharmacist for additional information or advice about snoring.