​Excessive Snoring

Snoring is a common occurrence during sleep, when the flow of air through the mouth and nose is physically obstructed. It is not a problem if it is light and under control but excessive snoring disturbs your sleep and may become a nuisance for your partner.

One cause of excessive snoring is being overweight. Extra tissue in the throat can vibrate as you breathe in air in your sleep, causing you to snore. If you are overweight, <obese> or pregnant, you often have extra bulky throat tissue. Genetic factors that can cause snoring include extra throat tissue as well as enlarged tonsils, large adenoids, long soft palate or long uvula. Other causes of excessive snoring include having allergies, congestion and <nasal structure deformities>.

Anything that prevents you from breathing through your nose can cause you to snore. This can include congestion from a cold or flu, allergies or deformities of the nose such as a deviated septum. You may snore when your throat or tongue muscles are relaxed. Substances that can relax these muscles may cause you to snore. This includes alcohol, muscle relaxants and other medications. Normal aging and the prolonged effects of smoking can also relax your throat and tongue muscles.

When to seek expert advise

If you snore heavily, and you or your partner is concerned about it, seek help from your doctor working with the <Mind and Brain Service Line> at The Aga Khan University Hospital. You can be assured of receiving the best quality medical care, additional information and medical advice from our expert, highly trained and internationally accredited staff. You can safely and privately discuss your symptoms, gain advice and receive personalized treatment and care.

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