Should You Be Afraid of Your Snores? What You Should Know

Snoring is a common problem that affects a large number of people. It is caused by an obstruction in the airway, which can be caused by a variety of factors. Snoring can be disruptive to sleep, cause headaches, and even lead to other medical issues. Because of this, it is important to understand why we snore and what to do about it. 

In the worst-case scenario, it can be an indication of a more serious medical condition such as sleep apnea. But should you be scared of your snores? In this guide, we take a deep dive into why you snore and its lasting impact.

Why Do We Snore?

The most common cause of snoring is due to the soft tissues in the airway becoming too relaxed, which can be caused by age, alcohol consumption, allergies, and other factors. Taking steps to reduce snoring can help improve overall health, and prevent further medical issues.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing them to stop breathing for brief periods of time. OSA can be very dangerous and can lead to serious health problems, including an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Snoring is one of the common symptoms of OSA, and if someone is snoring loudly it could be a sign that they have the disorder. It is important to get checked out by a doctor if snoring is suspected as it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

Risk Factors of OSA

1) Obesity

Obesity is a serious health concern because it can lead to a number of complications, including sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to numerous health risks, such as high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. People who are obese are particularly at risk for sleep apnea. 

2) Genetic Syndromes

Certain genetic syndromes have been associated with an increased risk of sleep apnea. Genetic syndromes may also cause neurological issues that can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate breathing during sleep. 

3) Enlarged Adenoids

Adenoids are a small mound of tissue located at the back of the nose and throat, and when they become enlarged, they can block the airway and disrupt normal breathing during sleep. 

This can cause a person to wake up frequently and cause daytime sleepiness. Treatment for enlarged adenoids is usually done through surgery, which can help reduce the risk of sleep apnea.

4) Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine disorders are conditions that affect the glands that produce hormones in the body. These hormones are necessary for regulating many bodily functions, including metabolism, growth and development, and reproduction. Sleep apnea is a disorder that is associated with endocrine disorders, because of the malfunctioning of the hormones. 

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you are concerned about your snoring, then it is important to see a doctor. Seeing a doctor can help you better understand the cause of your snoring and may recommend treatments or lifestyle changes that can help you manage it. 

Conclusion

Snoring is a common occurrence and should not be a cause of fear or alarm. Although snoring is normal, medical treatments may be necessary for more severe cases, such as sleep apnea. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your snoring, as it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.

If you are concerned about your snoring, consider talking to an expert from Lethbridge Snoring & Sleep Apnea Clinic. We offer clinical sleep solutions to help you sleep soundly in no time. Take a sleep apnea test with us today or book a consultation for more information.