Most snorers, when accused over their loud nocturnal habit, will protest that they simply can’t help it. It’s not something they do on purpose, or indeed that they are even aware of. This can cause all kinds of tensions, and the simple fact is that this isn’t even true, either. There are a number of general lifestyle causes of snoring which, once you know that they are responsible, it is possible to do a whole lot about, for the sake of your sleep, and that of your partner.
Here’s one simple lifestyle choice: overeating. If we’re overweight, then we’re also a lot more likely to have fatty deposits around the the breathing passages. This can put a lot of pressure on the body, and as well as all the other associated health risks that being overweight brings, it can mean that the lungs and associated muscles have a harder time getting air in and out of the body. This increased air pressure as we breath at night can lead to snoring, and is simply cured. Get rid of the extra weight, and your snoring will reduce.
The second is Alcohol. Alcohol, as we all know, has a lot of effects on the body. It is a depressant, which relaxes the muscles as it takes hold. When alcohol effects the muscles of the throat, this can make them hang loosely, more so than is normal. This loose tissue is then more likely to close up and constrict in the throat, leading to increased air pressure as you breathe, and it’s more prone to vibrate, which are the two components of snoring from the throat. If you drink in moderation, however, you shouldn’t be in danger of this. No need to totally abstain, just be aware that if you overdo it, then there are going to be bad effects. As with the previous reason, there’s a lot of different things this can apply to!
The next cause is Sleeping Posture. If you are in the habit of sleeping on your back, this can make your head fall backwards, and cause a constriction of the airways. This also allows neck fat, if you have any, to press on the airways that little more. Once again, breathing is impaired, and snoring can result. Snoring aids are available that can prop you up and help you to sleep on your side, and if you make a point of doing that anyway, you may find this helps a great deal.
The last common cause I’m going to mention is colds and stuffy noses. If you have some kind of infection, from a cold to a simple blocked nose, that can mean that you’ll have trouble breathing, and may snore as a result. Decongestants can help, as can things like nasal strips to widen the breathing passageways, whilst your body fights off the sickness.
If you take some of these simple tips in mind, you may find that yes, you can actually do a lot about your snoring! No more excuses!
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