The Sleep Foundation reports 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea which can seriously affect their quality of sleep. It also can lead to many health risks such as heart attack or stroke.
But if you snore, sleep apnea may be the reason and many people go through life being undiagnosed. A person with obstructive sleep apnea temporarily stops breathing during sleep because the airway becomes narrowed or blocked. One common cause of obstructive sleep apnea is enlarged tonsils or adenoids (tissues located in the passage that connects the nose and throat).
People with this sleep disorder may snore, have difficulty breathing, and even sweat heavily during sleep. Because it disrupts sleep, a person may feel extremely sleepy or irritable during the day. People who show signs of obstructive sleep apnea, such as loud snoring or excessive daytime sleepiness, should talk to their doctor.
Why do we snore?
Snoring occurs when there is an obstruction in the flow of air through the mouth and nose during sleep. This obstruction leads to the vibration of the soft tissues in the throat, producing the characteristic sound of snoring. Several factors contribute to the occurrence of snoring, including:
- Anatomy: The physical structure of the throat and airways can influence snoring. A low, thick palate or elongated uvula may narrow the airway, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
- Nasal Congestion: Conditions such as allergies or sinus infections can cause nasal congestion, limiting airflow and contributing to snoring.
- Sleep Position: Sleeping on your back can increase the likelihood of snoring, as the tongue and soft palate are more likely to collapse backward and obstruct the airway.
- Obesity: Excess weight, especially around the neck, can contribute to snoring by putting pressure on the airway.
How can snoring affect my brain?
A recent research study in France found a link between sleep deprivation, snoring, and brain health.
“Tiny lesions on the brain, known as white matter hyperintensities, are biomarkers that indicate brain health, becoming more prevalent with age or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Deep sleep is one of the best indicators of sleep quality and the study found that for every 10% decrease in deep sleep, the white matter hyperintensities increased, equivalent to the brain aging 2.3 years.”
In another research study conducted by faculty from The University of Texas at Dallas in 2022, a link has been discovered between breathing rates during sleep and cognitive health. The findings suggest that the simple act of measuring breathing rates while sleeping could be a promising tool for distinguishing between cognitively normal individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease.
The act of breathing may serve as an unexpected window into the state of our cognitive well-being. Variations in breathing rates during sleep appear to correlate with cognitive impairment, providing researchers with a non-invasive and easily measurable indicator.
How can I manage my snoring?
A sleep study may still be the best choice though the type of sleep study varies by a patient’s symptoms. Healthcare providers will monitor your sleep either in a lab or at your home using portable home sleep apnea testing equipment. Some ways to help manage snoring include:
- Simple lifestyle modifications can help alleviate snoring. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and sleeping on your side can be effective strategies.
- Encouraging individuals to sleep on their sides rather than their backs can reduce the likelihood of snoring.
- For those with nasal congestion, using saline nasal sprays or other decongestants may help improve airflow.
- In cases of persistent and severe snoring, medical interventions such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices or surgical procedures may be recommended.
If you live in Alaska and are ready to take back your sleep, contact The Alaska Sleep Clinic and receive a free 10-minute phone consultation with a sleep educator who can help you determine if a sleep study is right for you.
