Snoring is normal. Some types of snoring are natural, while others are more concerning. If you find that you or your partner frequently experiences episodes of excessive snoring, it’s worth investigating the causes further. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
Here are some health conditions that may cause someone to snore excessively.
1. Alcohol Addiction or Drug Abuse
When you consume high amounts of alcohol or take medication that slows down your central nervous system, your body relaxes and becomes less active. This can cause your muscles to become stiffer than usual, making it more difficult for your diaphragm to move appropriately.
To breathe, you have to have your diaphragm working as it should. If it is not, you will have to take shallow breaths. This makes loud snoring almost inevitable.
If you consume large amounts of alcohol or take sedatives regularly, your doctor may recommend taking specific steps to manage your snoring.
2. Obstruction of the Nasal Passages
If your airways are blocked, you may produce excess snoring noises as your body struggles to breathe. This may be due to a deviated septum. A deviated septum is when the septum (the cartilage between your nostrils) is not straight. This can cause the airflow from your nose to be blocked and may lead to excessive snoring.
In some cases, you may need to have surgery to open the nasal passages. If you are diagnosed with nasal obstruction, try to avoid sleeping with your mouth open. If you have to breathe through your mouth, your doctor may prescribe corrective nasal strips to help keep your airways open.
3. Obesity
Being overweight or obese can lead to several health problems, including sleep apnea. This is when the airways become blocked while you sleep, interrupting your breathing and causing you to wake up. Excessive weight can also lead to increased levels of inflammation in the body and a buildup of fatty deposits in the lungs.
If you are overweight and concerned about snoring, it’s best to visit your doctor. Your doctor can help you treat the snoring and manage it. Sometimes, you may be prescribed a particular breathing device called a CPAP machine, which helps keep the airways open while you sleep.
4. Sinus Problems
If you have a chronic sinus infection or inflammation, it can cause the nasal passages to become blocked. This can cause you to snore and experience pain when you eat or drink fluids.
You may also find that your snoring worsens after a lousy sinus infection if you have chronic sinus problems. Treatment for chronic sinus infections will vary depending on the cause.
5. Asthma and COPD
Particular types of chronic lung conditions can cause excessive snoring, including asthma and COPD. You may snore more if you have asthma and suffer from a flare-up.
Similarly, if you have COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), you may be more likely to experience snoring.
If you are concerned about snoring and have asthma or COPD, it’s best to visit your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine whether your snoring is a sign of a flare-up and can offer advice on managing it.
6. Tiredness and Lack of Exercise
Tiredness and fatigue are common causes of snoring and a lack of exercise. If you don’t get enough sleep or exercise regularly, you will likely be tired, making you more likely to snore.
If you are tired and overweight, you are at an even higher risk of snoring. You should see your doctor and make some lifestyle changes if you are tired and snore frequently.
Conclusion
Excessive snoring can be a sign of an underlying health condition. If you or your partner frequently experience excessive snoring, it’s worth investigating the causes further. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
If you are concerned about your snoring, visit your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine whether your snoring is a sign of a medical condition and can offer advice on managing it.