Snoring

What is snoring?

Snoring is the loud, harsh sound that happens when air flows past relaxed tissues in the throat, causing them to vibrate while breathing. It is very common among men but can also affect women and children. While many people think snoring is just a nighttime disturbance, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health problem.

Many Africans snore, but few take it seriously. Studies show that nearly one in four adults snores regularly, and about one in ten children also experience snoring, mostly due to enlarged tonsils. If you or someone you know snores often, it is important to understand why and what can be done about it.

How common is snoring in Africa?

In many African households, snoring is either ignored or laughed off as a funny habit. However, medical experts warn that snoring, especially when frequent and loud, can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing stops for a few seconds multiple times during sleep.

A study in Nigeria found that about 31% of adults experience habitual snoring, while another in Ghana showed that snoring is common among both urban and rural populations. In many cases, people don’t seek medical help because they don’t know snoring can be harmful.

What causes snoring?

Snoring happens when airflow is restricted while sleeping. Several factors can contribute to this, including:

• Blocked airways: Colds, flu, allergies, and sinus infections can block nasal passages, making breathing difficult.
• Overweight: Extra fat around the neck can narrow the airway and cause snoring.
• Sleeping position: Sleeping on the back can cause the tongue to fall backward, partially blocking airflow.
• Alcohol and smoking: Alcohol relaxes throat muscles, and smoking irritates airways, both of which can lead to snoring.
• Large tonsils and adenoids: Especially in children, enlarged tonsils can block airflow and cause snoring.
• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): A serious condition where breathing stops for short periods during sleep, leading to tiredness and other health risks.

How can snoring be prevented?

For mild cases, lifestyle changes can help reduce or stop snoring. Some simple steps include:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight, especially around the neck, can contribute to snoring.
• Sleep on your side: This prevents the tongue from blocking your airway.
• Avoid alcohol before bed: Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat, making snoring worse.
• Treat nasal congestion: Use saline sprays or decongestants to keep nasal passages clear.
• Raise your head while sleeping: Sleeping with your head elevated can help keep your airways open.
• Avoid heavy meals before bed: A full stomach can push against the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult.

If lifestyle changes do not improve snoring, it may be necessary to see a doctor.

What are the health risks of frequent snoring?

Snoring is not just an annoyance, it can have serious health consequences, including:

• Daytime fatigue: Poor sleep quality can make you tired and less productive during the day.
• High blood pressure: Snoring can lead to increased blood pressure, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Heart disease and stroke: People who snore frequently are at higher risk of these life-threatening conditions.
• Poor focus and memory problems: Sleep disturbances can affect concentration and memory.
• Relationship issues: Loud snoring can affect partners’ sleep, leading to frustration and poor relationships.

How is snoring treated?

If snoring is frequent and severe, medical treatments are available. These include:

• Mouthpieces: Special dental devices can help position the tongue and jaw to keep airways open.
• CPAP machines: A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine delivers steady air pressure to prevent airway blockage.
• Surgery: In severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery to remove excess throat tissue or correct a deviated nasal septum.
• Palatal Implants: Small implants inserted into the soft palate help reduce vibrations that cause snoring.

When should you see a doctor?

If you or someone you know snores loudly and frequently, it is important to seek medical advice, especially if:

• Snoring is accompanied by gasping or choking during sleep.
• You feel tired and sleepy during the day, even after a full night’s sleep.
• You experience headaches in the morning.
• Your partner notices that you stop breathing at night.

Snoring may seem harmless, but it could be a sign of serious health issues. Taking it seriously can improve sleep quality, overall health, and even save lives.