Snoring: A common sleep disorder

Sleep occupies a significant portion of an average human’s life, amounting to one-third or more. However, various sleep disorders such as snoring, impair both the quality and quantity of sleep, despite people’s desire for restful slumber. Among these disorders, snoring stands out as the most prevalent. It can be categorized into two types: obstructive sleep apnea and primary snoring.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, a condition prevalent in males, manifests as loud, excessive snoring, frequently interrupted by breathing stoppages and gasping for breath. Additional symptoms include daytime sleepiness and obesity.

Primary Snoring

Primary snoring, although not associated with apneic episodes, is highly prevalent. It can serve as an early indicator for the development of obstructive sleep apnea, particularly in individuals aged 35-40 who experience weight gain. Primary snoring is characterized by loud noises that disturb the sleeper or sleep partners.

It can be caused by different type of problems:

Anatomic:
– If the oropharynx is smaller or narrower than normal
– A deviated nasal septum
– Hypertrophy of the tonsils and/or adenoids
– Temporary or permanent enlargement of the nasal passages
– Mandibular abnormalities
– Tongue enlargement

Environmental:
– Smoking or air pollution
– Allergies

Medical consequences in Sleep Apnea

It is crucial to consult a physician to evaluate obstructive sleep apnea, as inadequate airflow can lead to severe health issues. Inadequate oxygenation can affect blood and brain function leading to more serious issues. Primary snoring can also indicate underlying health conditions. Snoring may trigger nocturnal asthma, while snoring itself can cause daytime fatigue and sleepiness. Additionally, snoring often accompanies hypertension, heart disease, asthma, and brain ischemia.

Smoking – Cigarette smoking has been demonstrated to be the cause of numerous medical problems, including snoring. The reason is the negative effect that smoking has on mucociliary clearance reducing the ciliary mobility, increasing the upper airway blockages and allowing mucus build up. This can even occur through exposure to second-hand smoke!

Nasal Obstruction – Normal breathing through the nose while sleeping will not cause snoring. When a nasal obstruction appears, the mouth is unconsciously opened and this is where snoring begins to occur. The solution is to liberate the nasal canal and allow for normal breathing during sleep.

How Salt Therapy helps in Snoring

Home salt therapy can be an effective aid in preventing and reducing snoring, depending on your snoring pattern. The bactericidal, mucokinetic, hydrophilic, and anti-inflammatory properties of salt particles help reduce mucosal inflammation and widen the airways, restoring normal mucus transport and alleviating nasal obstruction and snoring. Improved airway passages in the nose and sinuses enhance sinus drainage and reduce snoring. However, if snoring is accompanied by gasping for breath during sleep, it may indicate obstructive sleep apnea, requiring medical attention. Pets, including dogs, experience similar snoring patterns and can benefit from snoring remedies and devices. Salt therapy can also be beneficial for pets with asthma or snoring issues.

Phone: +1 / 519-641-SALT (7258)