While snoring is commonly associated with sleep apnea, snoring doesn’t necessarily mean that you have sleep apnea. Snoring occurs when the air vibrates against relaxed soft tissue in the throat, which makes a harsh sound. It often occurs when air is partially blocked when coming out of the nose or mouth. Snoring can be caused by a variety of factors.
What Can Cause Snoring?
Aside from sleep apnea, there are many factors that can play a role in snoring, such as:
- Nasal Congestion – Allergies, colds, and infections can cause snoring. Deviated septums or other structural biological blocks can also obstruct the nasal passages.
- Obesity – Weight can play a big role in sleep quality and snoring. Carrying excessive weight can cause limited airflow in the throat.
- Sedatives & Alcohol – Alcohol and sleep sedatives can relax the tissues in the back of the throat and obstruct the airway.
- Sleeping Position – Back sleepers may be more prone to snoring because of how gravity influences the tissues surrounding their airway.
How to Tell If Snoring Is Linked to Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes momentary pauses in breathing during sleep. If your snoring is accompanied by certain additional factors, it may be an indication that you’re suffering from sleep apnea. These factors can include:
- Daytime drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Waking up gasping for air
- Frequent headaches upon waking up
- Irritability
- Memory fog
If you’re currently experiencing one or more symptoms above in congruence with your snoring, we recommend visiting a healthcare professional for an evaluation as soon as possible. If sleep apnea is left untreated, it can contribute to a wide range of health issues and negatively impact your quality of sleep.