Have you been told that you snore in your sleep? If you happen to share your bed with a loved one, it’s probably something they’ve mentioned—most likely, they have lost some sleep because of it. However, they’re not alone! If you’re snoring, you aren’t getting the quality sleep you need, either. So how can you stop snoring?
Try a New Sleeping Position
Many people who sleep on their backs snore as a result of the tongue relaxing into the back of your throat, causing an obstruction to the airway. To resolve this issue, you may want to try sleeping on your side.
Get in Better Shape
Although your weight doesn’t necessarily determine whether or not you snore, many people have been able to reduce snoring by losing some weight. Overweight individuals often have extra fat and tissue around the neck, which can potentially restrict the airway when sleeping.
Ditch the Booze
Going to bed after consuming alcohol can lead to snoring, since the muscles and tissue in the back of the throat typically become more relaxed than normal. Limiting your alcohol intake altogether is always a good idea, but snoring can potentially be reduced if you avoid drinking alcoholic beverages within approximately three hours of your bedtime.
Start a Healthy Routine
Taking better care of yourself can improve sleep quality and potentially reduce snoring. Try incorporating a few sleep hygiene habits into your evening and see if it makes a difference in how you feel during the day.
Seek Help
If you’ve tried several remedies like the suggestions above but still aren’t getting the rest you need, there may be a more serious problem, such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you believe you (or a loved one) may be suffering from sleep apnea—getting treatment as soon as possible is crucial for your health. We can help you get the necessary sleep test, as well as find a treatment option that is most appropriate for your needs. I look forward to helping you improve your health and get more restful sleep!
Thanks for visiting! 🙂
–Dr. Edward Shukovsky
