Snoring is the disruptive sound a person makes when their air passages are blocked during sleep. It affects people of all ages and can usually be stopped with a simple remedy. If the cause of the snoring is obstructive sleep apnea, then a serious remedy may need to be considered. Remedies range from sleeping without a pillow to surgery.
Establish the Cause of Snoring
The way a person snores will give a clue to why they snore. This will make it easier to stop the snoring. If they snore with a closed mouth, they may have a problem with their tongue. Snoring with an open mouth indicates a problem with the tissue in the throat. It may be too relaxed or swollen. If a person only snores when they are sleeping on their back, the cure may be simple with a few lifestyle changes. If a person snores no matter what position they are sleeping in, they have a bigger problem and need a more comprehensive treatment.
How to Stop Snoring with Lifestyle Changes
Simple everyday actions and habits can be the cause of snoring. If these habits are changed, they can stop the snoring. If a person is overweight and snoring, losing weight will help a lot. A swollen, bulky throat will vibrate when it is relaxed during sleep. Exercise will reduce the fatty tissue and tone the muscles even in the throat which is one of the simple ways to stop snoring.
There is a good chance that most smokers snore. The tobacco smoke irritates the membranes in the throat and nose causing airways to be blocked. If smokers want to know how to stop snoring, it can be suggested that they just quit smoking.
A humidifier will keep the bedroom air moist. Dry air is an irritant that can cause the membranes in the throat and nose to swell.
Sleeping at regular times can help. Good sleep patterns is one of the best ways to stop snoring. Routine sleep patterns will promote better sleep and minimize snoring.
Repositioning the body during sleep may help stop the snoring. If a person only snores when lying on his or her back, attaching a tennis ball to the back of their pajamas will make it uncomfortable to sleep on the back, and they will roll over on their side.
How to Stop Snoring with Medical Treatments
A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine will keep the airways open during sleep.
Oral devices from the dentist or doctor that position the lower jaw can help keep airways open.
Surgery is the most serious of the ways to stop snoring. It will surgically remove tissue or correct abnormalities in the throat or nose to open the air passages.
Researchers are testing lasers and radiofrequency signals to remove parts of the soft palate to prevent snoring.