Why do we snore and what can we do about it?

Snoring is the noise people make while breathing during sleep.

It is not usually a very serious illness, but it can be indicative of other conditions. It is also a nuisance for those you share the bed or room with. It may be a result of sleep deprivation.

The condition happens when the air flow through the mouth or nose is hindered. There may be many reasons behind air flow being obstructed.

Muscle tone decreases with age, causing airways to constrict. That's why snoring is more common in older people. It is also more common in men and those who are overweight.

Alcohol consumption and certain medications which relax muscles may cause snoring too.

Anatomy may also contribute to snoring. If you have a long soft palate, enlarged adenoids, displaced cartilage in the nose, tonsils or a large tongue, it can be harder for air to flow through your nose and mouth, causing you to snore.

Snoring may run in families. Nasal stuffiness due to allergies or common cold may block airflow causing snoring.

Pregnant women may be more likely to snore due to hormonal changes or weight gain.

Snoring may also be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea. If you are a heavy snorer, you should check with your physician.

Treatments for snoring include changes in habit like quitting smoking or drinking. Your physician may also ask you to lose weight. Doctors might also suggest minor surgeries to open up your nasal or oral passage enough to prevent snoring.

You may also try remedies like sleeping on your side instead of your back and sticking to a sleep schedule to avoid snoring.