Snoring Problem
Most people snore at least a few times in their lives. When you have a cold or any other condition that blocks your nasal airways, you are more likely to snore during sleep. If you’ve ever been without restful sleep for long periods of time, you may begin to snore when you finally do catch a few Z’s. Snoring isn’t usually a problem unless you snore on a regular basis.
If you regularly get a full night’s sleep, yet still feel exhausted during the day, this may be a sign that you are snoring during sleep. Of course, someone else may have told you that all of your snoring is waking them up at night. Chronic snoring is something that should be addressed since it can indicate that you have a condition known as sleep apnea, which can lead to heart conditions and other serious health issues.
Chronic snoring may be a result of lifestyle habits. For instance, if you are overweight, smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol, or take sedatives before bed, you will be more susceptible to snoring. Lifestyle habits such as these are common causes of snoring and conditions such as sleep apnea. A reversal of these lifestyle habits is often enough to stop snoring. Other home treatment methods include nasal strips, decongestants, or devices that promote proper airflow.
If your snoring persists, you will do your overall health a favor by seeing an ENT specialist. An ear, nose and throat doctor will be able to perform a physical exam and other diagnostic tests to determine if there are any structural abnormalities in your nasal cavities. A proper diagnosis will ensure that you are following the most effective treatment plan so that you can begin to achieve restful sleep. Visit an ENT doctor if you snore loudly, fall asleep at inappropriate times, make gasping or choking noises during sleep, and/or feel tired even after a full night’s sleep.