What to do to stop snoring in your sleep: 9 effective ways to get quiet nights
25.08.2024 02:40
Snoring is a common problem that can seriously affect the quality of sleep not only for the snorer, but also for those close to him.
This sound is caused by vibrations of soft tissues in the airways during sleep.
However, there are ways to reduce or even eliminate snoring.
Changing body position during sleep
One of the easiest ways to reduce snoring is to change your sleeping position.
Snoring is usually heard when a person sleeps on their back because in this position the tongue and soft palate move backward and partially block the airway. Sleeping on your side can significantly reduce the likelihood of snoring.
To form the habit of sleeping in the correct position, you can use special pillows or sew a tennis ball to the back of your pajamas.
Maintaining a healthy weight
Being overweight is one of the main factors that contribute to snoring. Extra pounds cause fatty tissue to accumulate around the neck, which narrows the airway. Losing weight can significantly reduce or even eliminate snoring.
Eating right and getting regular exercise will not only help you stop snoring, but will also improve your overall health.
Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bedtime
Alcohol and sedatives relax the throat muscles, which increases the likelihood of snoring. It is recommended to abstain from alcohol at least 4 hours before bedtime.
If a person is taking sleeping pills or other sedatives, it is worth discussing with a doctor the possibility of replacing them with alternative drugs.
Humidification of air in the bedroom
Dry air can irritate the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, causing tissue swelling and making breathing difficult.
Using a humidifier in the bedroom can help reduce snoring. The optimal humidity level in the room is 40-60%.
Exercises to strengthen the throat muscles
Special exercises for the throat and tongue muscles can help strengthen the soft palate and reduce snoring.
For example, you can try pronouncing vowel sounds for three minutes several times a day, or pressing the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth and moving your tongue back. Doing these exercises regularly can make a big difference.
Using nasal strips or dilators
Nasal strips or dilators help widen the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe through your nose.
This is especially effective for people whose snoring is caused by difficulty breathing through the nose. These products are readily available in pharmacies and do not require a prescription.
Maintaining a sleep schedule
Lack of sleep can cause the throat muscles to become overly relaxed during sleep, which increases snoring.
It is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, even on weekends. An adult is recommended to sleep 7-9 hours a day.
Clearing the nasal passages
Nasal congestion can cause snoring. Before bed, you can use a saline solution to rinse your nose or special nasal sprays to clear your nasal passages and make breathing easier.
Consultation with a specialist
If home remedies don't help with snoring, it's worth seeing a doctor. Snoring can be a symptom of more serious problems, such as sleep apnea.
A specialist can conduct the necessary research and offer additional treatment methods, including the use of special devices or even surgery in complex cases.