Picture this: it’s bedtime, and you are looking forward to a good night’s sleep. Even though you are not feeling quite as rested as usual these last few months, you know you are sleeping for 7 or 8 hours. Just as you are getting settled in, your sleep partner mentions the subject of snoring. Specifically, that your snoring has gotten louder, and you sometimes make a snorting or gasping sound while you sleep. What is your snoring trying to tell you, and what should you do about it?
Snoring Could Say “I Had Too Much Too Drink.”
While alcohol makes you drowsy, it does not contribute to a good night’s sleep. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat, meaning they may partially close and vibrate, causing snoring sounds. To alleviate alcohol related snoring, have a smaller amount or none at all, and drink well before bedtime.
Snoring Could Say “I Need To Get More Exercise.”
Excess weight can cause a person to begin snoring, or to snore more loudly. When neck tissue thickens, it can constrict the airway, causing vibration with the flow of air. If you noticed you have gained weight and started snoring at about the same time, consider checking your diet, and adding more activity into your day. You can also talk with your family doctor if you need help with weight loss information.
Snoring Could Say “I Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea.”
About 75% of those who snore loudly suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA. In this condition, the upper airway becomes partially and sometimes fully blocked during sleep. The body works harder to draw breath. Eventually OSA snorers will startle briefly awake for a gasp of air, before falling back into the disordered sleeping pattern. Your dentist can help diagnose and treat OSA, and can refer you to a trusted colleague for further sleep study and treatment, when necessary.
Is Your Snoring Trying to Tell You Something?
If snoring is causing a problem for you or someone you love, we can help. Set up an appointment in Grand Prairie, TX by contacting your dentist at Pecan Tree Dental to schedule a visit at (972) 262-5111.
