Causes of Snoring
- Relaxation of the uvula and soft palate
- Genetic predisposition
- Throat weakness
- Mispositioned jaw
- Obesity and fat accumulation in the throat
- Nasal congestion
- Enlarged tonsils or deviated septum
- Age
- Sleep apnea
- Allergies
- Medications (sedatives and muscle relaxants)
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking

Consequences of Snoring
- Sleep deprivation
- Daytime drowsiness
- Irritability
- Decreased libido
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (hypertension and heart disease)
- Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
- Relationship problems
- Decreased quality of life
- Poor concentration
- Decreased cognitive function

Treatment Options for Snoring
- Lifestyle changes (weight loss, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol)
- Sleeping on the side
- Nasal strips or nasal dilators
- Oral appliances (mandibular advancement devices)
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
- Surgical interventions (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty)

Epidemiology of Snoring
- At least 30% of adults and perhaps as many as 50% of people in some demographics snore.
- One survey of 5,713 American residents identified habitual snoring in 24% of men and 13.8% of women, rising to 60% of men and 40% of women aged 60 to 65 years.
- An observational study in the UK Biobank estimated that ~37% of 408,317 participants were habitual snorers.
- Positive associations between snoring and larger body-mass index, lower socio-economic status, and more frequent smoking and alcohol consumption.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Snoring
- Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet
- Avoiding alcohol, sedatives, and heavy meals before bedtime
- Sleeping on your side or elevating the head of the bed
- Keeping the bedroom environment clean and free of allergens
- Trying nasal strips, nasal sprays, or saline rinses for nasal congestion relief