Snoring can be defined as an inspiratory (breathing in) noise produced by vibration of the softer parts of the airway and surrounding tissues.
Frequent abnormalities associated with snoring
- Deviated nasal septum
- Congenital narrowing of the nasal or oropharyngeal cavity
- Nasal polyps
- Nasal congestion
- Tonsillar Hypertrophy (enlarged tonsils)
- Macroglossia (enlarged tongue)
- Malposition of the hyoid bone (bone beneath the tongue)
- Obesity
Functional Factors
- Supine sleeping (back lying position).
- Sleep deprivation.
- Decreased muscle tone of the surrounding airway muscles.
- Gender…snoring as well as sleep apnea is more prevalent in men than in women.
- Hormonal diseases…including hypothyroidism.
- Heredity
- Drugs…including
- Sleep aids
- Alcohol
- Smoking
What if my child snores?
Treating Snoring: If snoring persists, you should contact your doctor for a complete evaluation.