Snoring

Snoring is a noise produced when an individual breathes during sleep which in turn causes vibration of the soft palate and uvula.

The noisy sounds of snoring occur when there is an obstruction to the free flow of air through the passages at the back of the mouth and nose. Sometimes kids with large tonsils and adenoids snore.

Deformities of the nose example deviated nasal septum can also cause snoring. The common causes for snoring are deviated nasal septum, growths in the nose, adenoids & large tonsils, large soft palate & elongated uvula, large tongue, tumors & developmental abnormalities in the jaw.

Snoring is often regarded as little more than a source of amusement. In general, snoring is not a health problem but, far from being amusing. It can often be a source of distress to partner and a cause of discord in the home. In some cases snoring as a manifestation of sleep apnea, can be a real threat to health.

All snorers have incomplete obstruction of the upper airway. Many habitual snorers have complete episodes of upper airway obstruction where the airway is completely blocked for a period of time, usually 10 seconds or longer. This silence is usually followed by snorts and gasps as the individual fights to take a breath. When an individual snores so loudly that it disturbs others, obstructive sleep apnea is almost certain to be present. There is snoring that is an indicator of obstructive sleep apnea and there is also primary snoring.

Primary Snoring

Primary Snoring is also known as simple snoring, snoring without sleep apnea, noisy breathing during sleep, benign snoring, rhythmical snoring and continuous snoring is characterized by loud upper airway breathing sounds in sleep without episodes of apnea.

Forty-five percent of normal adults snore at least occasionally, and 25 percent are habitual snorers . Problem snoring is more frequent in males and overweight persons, and it usually grows worse with age. National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that 30% of the population under 40 years of age snores, while 50% over the age of 60 does. Spouses and children are often repeatedly disturbed during their sleep cycles by a snoring family member, which can lead to tensions and animosity.

Pharmacies are often the first port of call for snorers, or their desperate domestic partners, for snoring cures and a wide range of these is available.