Snoring can be a nuisance for you and your bed partner, but it is also often a sign of an underlying health condition such as sleep apnea. In some cases, snoring can be treated by simple lifestyle changes or using a nasal device. In other cases, a medical or dental specialist can prescribe treatment or surgery.

Some stop snoring is due to a narrow throat, enlarged tonsils or a cleft palate, and can be hereditary. Other causes of snoring can include being overweight, drinking alcohol or taking sedative medications before sleeping, and the type of sleeping position used.

Stop Snoring: Simple Steps to a Quieter Night

The most common treatment for snoring is to lose weight, reduce consumption of alcohol and sedative medications, stop smoking, and change the sleep position or use a special pillow. Raising the head of the bed with risers or a wedge pillow can also help. Other treatments can include surgery to remove the uvula or a portion of the soft palate, or an implantable nerve stimulator to stimulate the throat muscles to prevent snoring.

Some snorers may be referred to a sleep specialist, who will advise on treatment and perhaps recommend an overnight sleep study to help identify the cause of the snoring. If you have a partner, it is a good idea to bring them along to the appointment so they can describe what the snoring sounds like and how it affects their sleep. Changing your sleep position, reducing congestion and quitting smoking are all simple ways to reduce snoring.