Why do people snore?

Some snoring is very common in adults; and, while it may be bothersome to others, it is probably not an indication of any larger problem.  However, within the many causes for snoring are some underlying disorders that should be treated by a doctor. Here are the primary causes for snoring:

 

·        Your family. It’s possibly that you’ve just inherited a small throat, which leads to snoring. Snoring can be hereditary.

·        Colds or allergies. When someone’s nasal passages are congested because of allergies, a cold, asthma, a sinus infection or any other cause, they are much more likely to snore.

·        Antihistamines. There are many drugs, including antihistamines and common sleeping pills that relax the breathing muscles and thus cause snoring. 

·        Alcohol and tobacco. Those who smoke and those who drink alcohol before bed are very likely to snore.

·        Airway blockage. If you have enlarged tonsils or something else that is blocking your airway, you will be very prone to snoring.

·        Weight. People who are overweight have extra neck tissue that puts pressure on their airway and causes them to snore.

·        Fitness. Even if you’re not overweight, the lack of being in shape and the poor muscle tone is known to contribute to the problem.

·        Age. The older a person gets, the narrower their throats become. And as the muscles in their throat begin to weaken, snoring increases.

·        Gender. Men generally have smaller throats than women do, which makes them more likely to snore. On the other hand, women in their last month of pregnancy are also very prone to snoring.

·        Deformities. Deformities in your nasal passage (for example: a deviated septum) can cause snoring because of the way they obstruct your breathing.

·        The way you sleep. If you sleep on your back, you are more likely to snore. Also, sleeping with too many pillows can change the angle of your breathing passage and promote snoring.

·        The way you breathe. Many people breathe through their mouths instead of their noses while they sleep. This makes snoring a huge possibility.

·        Sleep apnea. This is the most dangerous cause of snoring. A serious sleep disorder, sleep apnea causes periods of more than ten seconds where the individual stops breathing, then a short gasp when breathing starts again.   The cycle continues several times a night and can cause a stroke or other negative reaction to the lack of oxygen.