Structural problems such as a deviated nasal bone can cause snoring.
Studies have shown that people who snore a lot are more susceptible to heart attacks.
Snoring can be a problem for many people. Recent studies have shown that people who snore a lot are more likely to suffer from heart attacks, strokes, and sudden cardiac arrests than others. According to health experts, people who snore severely can even die while sleeping. Dr. GC Khilnani, former director of Pulmonary Intensive Care and Sleep Medicine and chairman, PSRI, IPCSM, AIIMS New Delhi, explains that snoring can indicate a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea, which is quite common. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when people, especially those with a short neck, obesity, enlarged tonsils, or other contributing factors, experience decreased airflow to the lungs as their muscles relax during sleep. This reduced airflow causes increased snoring as the sleep cycle deepens. As a result, this condition affects not only the lungs, but also the brain and heart, reducing overall oxygen levels throughout the body. People with obstructive sleep apnea often deal with fragmented sleep, resulting in dry mouth at night and persistent sleepiness during the day.
Dr. Khilnani explains that because less oxygen reaches not only the brain and heart but also other parts of the body, these people face many health problems such as stroke, heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest, and also high blood pressure. Dr. Khilnani points out that snoring is particularly prevalent among obese people, affecting 70 to 80 percent of them. Obesity contributes to snoring through factors such as a prominent belly, a thick neck, and fatty deposits in the throat. Structural problems such as a deviated nasal bone or conditions such as a cold can obstruct breathing and lead to snoring.
Treatment options for snoring include:
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Weight loss: The most effective and easiest way to reduce snoring is to lose weight. Excess weight, especially around the neck and abdomen, can contribute to snoring. As weight is lost, snoring usually decreases as well.
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C-Pap Machine: The continuous positive airway pressure (C-Pap) machine helps control snoring by maintaining a constant air pressure throughout the night. This device is placed over the nose and throat while sleeping and ensures that the airway remains open, improving sleep quality and overall health.
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Surgery: In cases where snoring is due to anatomical problems, such as enlarged tonsils or structural problems in the throat, surgery may be necessary. ENT surgeons can perform operations to correct these problems and improve airflow.
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Dental appliances: Custom dental appliances can also be used to treat snoring. These devices reposition the jaw slightly forward, which can reduce snoring and relieve mild cases of sleep apnea. They are usually less effective in severe cases and require individualized fitting for each patient.
