Snoring is a problem that affects millions-perhaps billions- of people. Approximately 15 million people snore in the UK alone according to a recent scientific study. Nigeria is yet to have a convincing scientific study on snoring, but it won’t be too far of an assumption to make when we say that our citizens snore in their millions too.
If you’re feeling bad about it, we urge you not to; remember that you’re not alone. If your spouse or loved one’s snoring is affecting your sleep, don’t fret. It is perfectly curable as long as you are willing to get all the knowledge you can about it and try the array of natural and medical remedies available.
These are some points that can help to improve your knowledge of snoring a lot better:
Facts:
1. Snoring sounds can range from 50db to 100db (the level of a pneumatic drill)
2. 70% of snorers have a family member who snores, linking to heredity.
3. Over one-third of couples are having disharmony problems because of snoring
4. Bed partners of snorers say they have three to five hours of sleep every night out of the average nine recommended hours
5 . The louder you snore, the more likely you are to be overweight
Remedies:
1. Sleeping on your side: This is an easy way to stop snoring as it prevents the individual’s tongue from relaxing on the back wall of your throat.
2. Clear up your nasal passages: Sometimes, a congested nose may also be the cause of your worries, especially during flu season. Lying down at night with it creates a vacuum in your throat which is what leads to snoring. Use an over-the-counter saline spray to help this problem, or ask your pharmacist for an effective drug.
3. Lose weight: This is another option to consider especially if you’ve experienced some weight gain in recent months. Studies show that excess fat especially around the neck can put pressure on the airway and sometimes cause it to collapse.
4. Avoid smoking, alcohol and sedatives: These three are proven triggers of snoring. The first irritates the upper airway and the latter two relax the throat and jaw, along with the tongue, which obstructs the throat; hence, the snoring. Don’t drink alcohol within three hours of bedtime.
5. Visit an allergist: You just might be allergic to something in your immediate environment that may be setting off the snoring as a reaction to exposure. Visit your doctor to ask for a recommended allergist who can help to test if this is the case
Sources: The British Snoring and Sleep Apnea Association, How Stuff Works
