When Should I Be Worried About Loud Snoring?

If you've ever shared a room with a loud snorer, or if you are one yourself, you know how disruptive it can be. Loud snoring has the capacity to wake you up from your sleep or prevent you from falling asleep in the first place. It's not just a nuisance; it's a common occurrence. According to the National Sleep Foundation, about 90 million American adults snore, and 37 million of them do it on a regular basis.

 

What Causes Snoring?

Loud snoring occurs when air flow is restricted through the mouth and nose during sleep. This happens when the muscles in the back of the mouth, tongue, and throat relax, causing them to sag and narrow the airway. As you breathe, the walls of the throat start to vibrate; the greater the vibration, the louder the snore.

Factors such as age, nasal and sinus problems, being overweight, alcohol, smoking, medications, and sleep posture can all contribute to loud snoring. Additionally, men are more likely to snore or have sleep apnea compared to women.

While occasional snoring is usually not serious and is mostly a nuisance for your bed partner, habitual snoring could be a sign of a sleep disorder like sleep apnea, a condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep.
 

Health Problems Related to Loud Snoring

Studies have linked heavy snoring to conditions such as sleep apnea, hypertension, stroke, heart problems, and stroke.

Obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where snoring is often severe, can lead to repeated awakenings throughout the night and severe daytime sleepiness. This can result in poor daytime function and an increased risk of accidents.

Additionally, the long-term effects of sleep apnea can be serious. They include high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Mental health issues are also common in people with sleep apnea. Depression, anxiety, and cognitive issues like memory loss are often linked to this condition.
 

When should I be Concerned About Loud Snoring?

You may be wondering when loud snoring should be a cause for concern. While occasional snoring is common and usually not serious, there are certain signs and symptoms that indicate your snoring may require medical attention.

If your snoring is accompanied by daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, recent weight gain, awakening in the night gasping for air, or changes in your level of attention, concentration, or memory, it’s time to see a doctor.

Other signs to watch out for include observed episodes of breathing cessation during sleep, difficulty concentrating, mood disturbances such as irritability, depression, or mood swings, high blood pressure, and night sweats. If you or your partner notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical advice.
 

The Role of a Snore Guard

One of the ways to manage loud snoring is by using a snore guard. A snore guard is a device that you wear in your mouth to prevent snoring. It works by moving the jaw forward, which increases the size of the upper airway, thereby reducing the air resistance that leads to snoring.

Snore guards are most effective for those who snore through their mouth or have mild to moderate sleep apnea. They can help to reduce the frequency and loudness of snoring, improve sleep quality, and subsequently improve daytime sleepiness.

 

Benefits of a Snore Guard: Are They Really Effective?

Yes, snore guards can be very effective in managing loud snoring. They have been proven to substantially reduce snoring in many individuals, leading to better sleep quality for both the snorer and their partner.

In addition to reducing snoring, snore guards have been shown to reduce the frequency of waking up during the night, decrease daytime sleepiness, and improve overall quality of life. Furthermore, they are a non-invasive, cost-effective alternative to other treatments such as surgery or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
 

How to Get Fitted for Your Snore Guard

Getting fitted for a snore guard at Perio Atlanta is a simple process. Our team of qualified dental professionals will take an impression of your teeth to make sure your snore guard fits perfectly.

Once your snore guard is ready, we will instruct you on how to use and care for it. Regular follow-ups are also essential to ensure the device fits well and is effective. A well-fitted snore guard can be a major step towards reducing snoring and improving your sleep quality.

 

Take the Next Step Toward Sleeping Comfortably Today.

Loud snoring is more than just a nightly annoyance—it could be a sign of a serious health issue. If you or your loved one snores loudly, it’s crucial to recognize the associated risks and seek medical attention if necessary.

A snore guard can be an effective tool for managing your loud snoring. At Perio Atlanta, we are committed to helping you achieve a good night's sleep with our personalized snore guards.

Don't let loud snoring rob you of your rest and health. Take action and consult with our professionals at Perio Atlanta in our Atlanta, Georgia, office. Call (404) 352-3123 to schedule an appointment today.