Reasons
Nasal Obstruction:
Deviated Nasal Septum (DNS): If the septum in the middle of the nose is tilted to one side, it obstructs the airflow and causes nasal congestion and snoring.
Nasal Polyps: The growth of tissue inside the nose narrows the airway.
Allergic Rhinitis:
This is a condition in which the nasal membranes swell (inflammation) due to dust, pollen or weather changes. This makes breathing difficult and forces you to breathe through your mouth during sleep. This is a major cause of snoring.
Chronic Sinusitis:
Chronic infection or inflammation of the sinuses (air sacs around the nose) causes a constant feeling of stuffiness and congestion in the nose.
Excess Tissue in Throat:
In overweight people, the fat around the neck puts pressure on the airway. When the muscles relax during sleep, this area becomes more constricted, causing snoring.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):
This is the most serious cause of snoring. This is a condition in which the airways become completely blocked during sleep. This reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood and can lead to serious health problems.
Lifestyle factors:
Smoking: It causes inflammation in the membranes of the nose and airways, which worsens nasal congestion.
Alcohol: Drinking alcohol before bed can relax the muscles in the throat, which can lead to snoring.
Prevention:
Sleeping position: Sleeping on your side instead of lying flat can help reduce snoring.
Steam inhalation: Steam inhalation daily is beneficial to reduce nasal congestion.
Lose weight: Losing weight for overweight people can make breathing easier.
Doctor’s advice: Check with an ENT specialist for nasal polyps or nasal polyps.