A matter of health and quality of life – Montpieta

By Eva Remolina / AMIC Image: Getty Images

Snoring may seem harmless, and sometimes even funny, but for many people, it is a source of anxiety and discomfort. This phenomenon can affect not only the quality of sleep of people who snore, but also the quality of sleep of those with whom they share space. That's why it's essential to understand why they occur and how they can be treated.

Snoring is the result of partial obstruction of the upper airways while we sleep. This blockage causes vibrations in the structures of the throat and mouth, generating the characteristic noise we often associate with this phenomenon. Although it is often trivial, it is important to note that snoring can be an indicator of more serious problems such as sleep apnea, a condition where stopping breathing during the night can have negative health repercussions.

Snoring can have a number of causes, including:

Nasal congestion: When the nasal passages are blocked due to reasons such as allergies, infections, or a deviated nasal septum, a person is more susceptible to snoring.

Muscle tissue relaxation: During sleep, the muscles of the throat and tongue can relax excessively, causing partial obstruction of the airways.

Anatomical factorsSome anatomical factors, such as a small lower jaw, a large tongue, or a wide throat, can contribute to snoring.

Abuse of alcohol or tranquilizers: Substances such as alcohol and tranquilizers can over-relax muscles, making snoring more likely.

How to avoid it?

Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are several strategies you can try to reduce:

Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight increases the likelihood of snoring. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce snoring.

Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed: It can help prevent excessive relaxation of the throat and tongue muscles.

Changes in sleeping position: eIn some cases, changing the position in which you fall asleep, such as avoiding sleeping on your side or with your head too high, can help reduce snoring.

The medical treatment: In more severe cases or when snoring is related to sleep apnea, it is important to seek medical advice. Treatments can range from oral appliances to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.