Snoring, Snoring Solutions

As a very common issue among American adults, 45% have reported snoring occasionally while 24% say they consider themselves regular snorers. Although in most cases, snoring is either an embarrassment or a source of aggravation for the person who sleeps with the snorer. Yet while snoring affects both genders, it is more common among men than women (40% to 24% respectively). So, what causes snoring in males and why do men snore more than women?

Well, one of the key factors is the difference between their respiratory anatomy. Men tend to have narrower airways as compared to women and that enhances the risk of restricted breathing when asleep. This is due to differences in the neck circumferences, jaw structure and body size.

Additionally, it’s important to understand what causes us to snore. When you fall asleep, your upper airway muscles begin to relax. For some individuals, the upper airway gets obstructed as those muscles relax. As air is inhaled through the airway, the throat tissues start to vibrate, thereby causing the noise commonly associated with snoring. In cases of chronic, loud snoring, this is often an indication of a more serious underlying condition known as obstructive sleep apnea or OSA.

What are the more common Causes of Snoring in Men?

Snoring is caused by several factors, many of which can be treated by making certain lifestyle changes or by taking other non-invasive measures. As you sleep, the soft palate along with your throat and tongue muscles relax. This causes the airway to grow narrower and your airflow becomes more forceful which increases the volume of your snoring. The following 5 conditions can affect your airway and cause you to snore:

  • Alcohol consumption – consuming excess alcohol prior to bedtime can cause you to snore because it relaxes the muscles of the throat and decreases the ability to keep your airway unobstructed.

  • Anatomy of your mouth – if you have an elongated uvula, have extra throat tissue due to being overweight, or have a thicker than normal soft palate, you’ll be more prone to snoring than individuals who aren’t affected by these anatomical anomalies.

  • Nasal problems – chronic nasal congestion or a deviated septum can also be the cause of your snoring.

  • Factor in the Age – As men age, the muscle strength and tone decrease which makes it more prone to tongue falling back into the throat. It is due to the muscles relaxing that your chances of snoring increases. Low levels of testosterone, which may occur with age or certain medical conditions, can lead to muscle relaxation in the throat, increasing the risk of snoring.

  • Sleep deprivation – a lack of quality sleep can lead to relaxation of the throat muscles and cause you to snore.

  • Sleeping position – thanks to the effects of gravity on the throat and a narrowing of the airway, snoring tends to happen more frequently and is the loudest among individuals who sleep on their backs.

Furthermore, in addition to annoying your bed partner, snoring that’s associated with obstructive sleep apnea can put you at risk of other health complications.

What causes Snoring in Males?

A common question answered by doctors, somnologists (sleep therapists), and other healthcare professionals is “Why do men snore more than women?” In most cases, this is attributed to the male biology in one of 3 ways as follows:

  • Additional airway space and tissue – the most common reason why men snore more than women is because they have additional space and tissue in their airways.

  • Extra chest weight – while women tend to carry extra weight on their hips and thighs, men (especially those that are overweight) men carry weight in their necks and chests.

  • Male hormones – for men, chronic or increased snoring has been linked to the male hormone testosterone. Conversely, estrogen in women and progesterone in pregnant women help to decrease the number of snoring episodes they experience.

If your snoring is causing problems with your health or in your relationship (or both), it’s time to see your doctor for their recommendations. Usually, it helps to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Though there are some aspects that you can take to reduce snoring. This includes:

  • Lifestyle changes: It is best to stop smoking, limit alcohol intake and exercise regularly. It helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and hypertension. Additionally, toning of the muscles helps to strengthen the body.

  • Medical interventions: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is one of the effective treatments for OSA. This involves using a machine that delivers a pressurized air hat is inhaled through a mask worn over the nose or mouth when asleep. Surgical procedures, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), may be recommended in cases where anatomical abnormalities lead to snoring.

For temporary relief, Asonor Anti-snoring Spray and Snoring Solution Online can help reduce the intensity and number of snoring episodes you experience. To learn more about what causes snoring in males, visit our website today or e-mail your questions to [email protected].

 
 
 

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