Why Does My Spouse Snore So Loud?
If your partner’s snoring keeps you up at night, rest assured that you are not alone. Snoring affects millions of households and their spouses, and it can disrupt not only the snorer’s sleep but also the sleep of those nearby. Snoring can be frustrating, but understanding its causes is the first step to finding a solution. Whether it is through simple lifestyle changes, non-invasive treatments, or advanced options like laser therapy, there’s hope for quieter, more restful nights for both you and your partner. Schedule an appointment with our Larchmont dentist, Eric Spellman, DMD, to discuss further the causes of the problem and a non-invasive laser snoring relief treatment.
What Causes Loud Snoring?
Nasal Congestion or Obstruction
Suppose your partner experiences nasal congestion due to allergies, colds, or a blocked airway. In that case, they are more likely to breathe through their mouth while sleeping, creating turbulence in the throat and leading to the vibrations that cause snoring.
Excess Weight or Obesity
Carrying extra weight, especially around the neck, can result in excess tissue in the throat. This tissue can vibrate during sleep when air flows through, leading to loud snoring.
Aging
Aging naturally reduces muscle tone, including in the throat. Relaxed throat muscles increase the likelihood of the airway becoming partially obstructed, contributing to snoring.
Sleep Position
Sleeping on your back causes the tongue to fall back into the throat, partially blocking the airway. This sleep position makes snoring more pronounced than other sleep positions, such as sleeping on the side.
Alcohol Consumption Before Bedtime
A nightcap might sound relaxing, but alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat. This relaxation can make snoring louder and more frequent.
Smoking
Smoking causes the throat to swell by irritating and inflaming the throat and airway. A narrow airway increases the risk of snoring as air struggles to pass through.
Anatomical Factors
Certain physical traits can narrow the space for airflow, such as a deviated septum, enlarged tonsils, or a long soft palate. These structural issues can lead to consistent, loud snoring.
Why Is the Snoring So Loud?
According to Dr. Eric Spellman, DMD, snoring occurs when airflow through your throat or nasal passages is partially obstructed. The sound is the vibration of tissues as air passes through, and the volume can vary depending on how restricted the airflow is. Factors such as inflammation, muscle relaxation, or excess tissue can make the snoring even louder.Solutions to Help Reduce Snoring
Non-Invasive Snoring Relief Treatments
There are a variety of non-invasive options that may help alleviate mild to moderate snoring. These include:- Nasal strips or sprays to open up nasal passages
- Anti-snoring mouthpieces or custom oral appliances
- Sleep position aids to encourage side sleeping
- Humidifiers to prevent dry air from irritating the throat