Snoring is often considered an uncomfortable, annoying problem capable of disrupting sleep. In some cases, snoring can be considered normal, but often the root is much deeper and an indicator of serious health conditions, no matter how light or loud the snoring. Today, we’ll tell you more about snoring and its possible complications.
Is it normal to snore?
Snoring is more common as a person gets older, has excessive weight, and smokes or drinks alcohol. It occurs when the throat muscles relax and vibrate when airflow goes. Since extra weight often leads to enlarged tonsils, tongue, or excess weight around the neck, the airway becomes too narrow for full-fledged breathing.
Is snoring normal? Yes, if you snore just periodically. Some anatomical alterations in the throat or nose (a deviated septum, for example) make passageways narrow in the throat that causes snoring sounds. In this case, an abnormal anatomical structure can be a harmless side effect or considered “normal snoring”.
Another case of normal snoring is nose and throat inflammation due to an allergy, cold or other respiratory illness. Breathing is temporarily difficult and causes snoring. The can occur due to bad sleeping positions, but adopting the right one will often fix the problem. Know more about how to choose the best sleep position here.
When snoring is not normal
Now let’s observe why snoring is not normal and can be dangerous for you. In the majority of cases, it might be a sign of particular health risks: heart diseases, strokes, sleep apnea, diabetes, accidents, and mental health concerns. How to recognize them? Is light snoring normal? Note the following symptoms of a habitual snorer:
- Pauses in breathing at night;
- Frequent or loud snoring;
- Awaking at night with breathing difficulties;
- Restless sleep;
- High blood pressure;
- Weight gain;
- Daytime sleepiness;
- Irritability;
- Morning headaches;
- Poor concentration.
We strongly recommend a doctor’s consultation if you or your partner experience any of these symptoms.
Is it normal to snore loud? No. Loud snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. Light snoring is considered less so, but this doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Sometimes it can be a sign of an early stage of the disease, too.
There’s a solution that allows you to understand your snoring without leaving home. Using Goodsomnia Lab app, you can record your sleep, get a snoring graph and gather all your sleep data in one report. It will help you to prepare for a physician’s visit and provide more background information to them.
You are on the right track if you’re looking for answers to “Is it normal to snore?”. The first step to solving the problem is determining and accepting it. Snoring often disrupts your sleep and leads to many health complications, including a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Don’t put off dealing with your snoring problem; deal with it and finally you’ll be able to sleep tight!
