How Common Is Snoring?
Snoring is incredibly common. For many people, it is simply an occasional annoyance that disrupts their partner’s sleep. But could your snoring be telling you something more about your health?
If you snore, you’re certainly not alone. It is estimated that around 40% of men and 30% of women experience at least mild snoring on some nights, while around 15% of people snore on most nights.
While occasional snoring is usually nothing to worry about, loud or persistent snoring can sometimes be a sign of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a sleep disorder that can affect your health and quality of life.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring happens when the tissues in your upper airway vibrate as you breathe during sleep.
When you are awake, muscles in your throat help keep your airway open. As you fall asleep, these muscles naturally relax, which can cause the airway to narrow. As air moves through the narrower airway, the surrounding tissues vibrate, creating the sound we know as snoring.
Some people are naturally more prone to snoring because they have a narrower airway. Other factors can also increase the likelihood of snoring, including being overweight, allergies or nasal congestion, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, drinking alcohol before bed, smoking, certain medications, pregnancy and sleeping on your back.
Is Your Snoring More Than Just an Annoyance?
For most people, snoring is simply inconvenient – particularly for anyone sharing the bedroom. However, regular snoring can sometimes be a warning sign of obstructive sleep apnoea.
OSA occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, repeatedly interrupting normal breathing. These episodes can happen many times throughout the night, often without the person being aware of them.
Someone with sleep apnoea may snort, choke or gasp for air before briefly waking and returning to sleep. A partner is often the first person to notice these symptoms.
Other signs can include feeling excessively tired during the day, waking with headaches or a dry mouth, experiencing difficulty concentrating or noticing changes in mood.
Why Sleep Apnoea Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Interrupted sleep can leave you feeling tired, lethargic and irritable, even after spending what seems like a full night in bed.
More importantly, untreated sleep apnoea can have longer-term health consequences. It is associated with conditions including high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems and an increased risk of stroke. It can also affect concentration, memory, mood and sexual health.
This is why persistent, loud snoring should not always be dismissed as a harmless sleeping habit.
When Should You See a Doctor About Snoring?
If your partner regularly tells you that you snore loudly, stop breathing, choke or gasp during sleep, it is worth speaking with your doctor.
You should also consider seeking medical advice if you regularly wake feeling exhausted despite getting what you believe is enough sleep.
A doctor may recommend a sleep study to determine whether you have obstructive sleep apnoea. If OSA is diagnosed, treatment will depend on the severity of the condition and your individual circumstances.
Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment
While a mattress cannot treat snoring or sleep apnoea, having a comfortable and supportive bed can contribute to a better overall sleep environment.
At BedGuard, we offer a range of mattresses designed to provide comfort, support and practical protection for different sleeping needs.
If snoring is affecting your sleep – or your partner’s, it may be worth looking at your entire sleep environment, including whether your mattress is providing the comfort and support you need.
Occasional snoring is common, but persistent or loud snoring should not be ignored. If you or your partner notice signs that could indicate sleep apnoea, speak with your doctor for appropriate assessment and advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snoring
Why do people snore?
Snoring occurs when relaxed tissues in the throat vibrate as air passes through a narrowed airway during sleep.
Is snoring every night normal?
Regular snoring can have several causes and does not necessarily mean you have a medical condition. However, frequent or loud snoring can be associated with obstructive sleep apnoea and is worth discussing with your doctor.
Can snoring be a sign of sleep apnoea?
Yes. Loud, persistent snoring can be one of the most noticeable symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea, particularly when accompanied by choking, gasping or pauses in breathing during sleep.
Can a mattress stop snoring?
A mattress cannot prevent or treat snoring or sleep apnoea. However, a comfortable, supportive mattress can help create a better sleep environment and contribute to overall sleep comfort.
