Snoring is an annoyance that affects many individuals worldwide, as well as their partners and family members. The loud noises make it almost impossible for many people to get the restful sleep we all need. Sleep deprivation can lead to a variety of health problems, unnecessary stress, and a weakened immune system. Given that snoring is a disturbance for millions of people, it’s no surprise that many are searching for a solution to help alleviate the issue.
Statistics show that 37,000 Americans suffer from snoring problems, and about one in four people is affected by it. This means someone in your household is most likely disturbing your sleep every night! Now that you know you’re not alone, it’s time to explore what you can do to eliminate this problem. While not all snorers are extremely loud, it’s a persistent issue that has several available treatments.
Behavioral Changes to Help with Snoring
Many causes of snoring can stem from everyday behaviors that can be altered to reduce or even eliminate snoring entirely. If you’ve recently developed a snoring problem, it may be due to changes in your lifestyle. Here are a few treatments you can try:
Weight gain is a common cause of snoring. As weight increases, fat tissues develop at the back of the throat, obstructing airflow and causing increased vibrations, which lead to loud snoring sounds. Alcohol consumption is another factor that can worsen snoring. Doctors recommend avoiding alcohol for at least an hour before bed to reduce its impact on snoring. Lastly, smoking can contribute to snoring by causing airway blockage due to the chemicals and tar inhaled. Quitting smoking helps clear the air passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing snoring.
These behavioral changes can significantly reduce or eliminate snoring. However, sticking to these changes can be difficult for many people. Those who drink alcohol or smoke regularly may find it challenging to make these adjustments, which is why surgical options have become more popular. If you’re someone who struggles to change these habits, read on for other available treatments.
Nasal Medications and Devices
There are many nasal medications and devices that can help with snoring. For example, nasal strips, which can be found at most convenience stores, work by opening the nasal valve to improve airflow. If snoring is caused by blockages in this area, these strips can help eliminate the problem. Allergies can also cause snoring by swelling the nasal passages, and if this is the case for you, nasal sprays can help reduce the inflammation and alleviate the issue.
Somnoplasty: A Surgical Solution
A common treatment that many people are considering is a procedure called Somnoplasty. If you’re ready to get the sleep you’ve been missing, this surgery may be worth looking into. Somnoplasty is a quick procedure that typically takes around 30 minutes. It uses low-pressure, low-temperature radiofrequency energy to target the soft palate. Tiny portions of tissue are heated just enough to cause clotting, and over the next four to six weeks, the body naturally absorbs this tissue. As a result, the tissue volume decreases, and the affected area stiffens, helping to reduce snoring.
After undergoing somnoplasty, you may experience discomfort for less than a week. However, many people find that it’s well worth the temporary discomfort. Over the course of the following month, you should notice an improvement in your sleep as the tissue is absorbed, leading to a decrease in snoring. Somnoplasty has helped many individuals, so if you or your partner suffers from severe snoring, consult your doctor to see if somnoplasty or another surgical treatment could benefit you.
