There are many reasons why someone might snore. Of course, if your partner complains that your snoring is akin to a buzz saw or freight train, then this habit could be warning you of a bigger problem. What could your snoring be trying to tell you? Well, it might just be letting you know that you could have sleep apnea.
While not everyone who snores will have sleep apnea most people who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea are also loud snorers. Obstructive sleep apnea causes the airways to collapse in the back of the throat, producing breathing cessations multiple times throughout the course of the night. This sleep disorder can cause some detrimental effects on your health, as it is linked to stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and even cardiovascular disease.
Sleep apnea not only affects your health but also deprives you of the quality sleep you need. As a result, you may find yourself dealing with mood swings or lacking the concentration that you need to be as efficient at work.
Sometimes snoring is a warning sign that you are dealing with sinus problems, such as an infection. Allergies can also cause congestion, making it more difficult to breathe and ultimately leading to snoring. Furthermore, structural abnormalities such as a deviated septum can also affect how much air can get through the nose, which can lead to snoring.
If you suspect that you may be dealing with allergies or other nasal problems then it’s time to turn to an otolaryngologist who can help. Sometimes medication is all that’s needed to treat your symptoms and prevent snoring, while in other cases surgical repairs are required.
In some situations, enlarged tonsils may also play a role in snoring. This tissue located in the back of the throat is your body’s first line of defense against infection. Of course, if they are enlarged then it only makes sense that you may be more likely to snore. Whether you just have snoring issues or snoring due to sleep apnea, sometimes removing the tonsils can be a great way to eliminate breathing issues and stop snoring altogether.
If you are a loud snorer or if you are not experiencing restful sleep you must turn to an ENT expert who can help you get to the bottom of your problems. Everyone deserves to get quality sleep.