Why do I snore so loudly?
The Symphony of Snoring
Have you ever heard someone snore so loudly that it sounded like a freight train rolling right through the middle of your house? Well, believe it or not, there are people who actually snore so loudly that the decibel levels they produce are on par with a rock and roll concert!
In fact, loud snoring is much like a symphony created by human anatomy.
Think of the tongue as a soft fleshy tuning fork that flops and rattles away during the night while the cheeks expand and retract like the bagpipes.
As we fall asleep and our muscles relax, our tongues can fall back and obstruct our breathing. The music (or snoring) we hear is created by the inhalation and exhalation of our breathing as our bodies attempt to shut down and rest. Snoring or pauses in your breathing at night can be a result of those muscles relaxing and can be a common sign of sleep apnea.
If your bed partner or family member mentions you have been playing the song of snoring, and you feel tired during the day, you may want to get tested for sleep apnea.
Scientists today have a much better understanding of the physiology of healthy slumber and sleep apnea can interrupt that sleep. As we fall into the different stages of sleep, the efficiency of our breathing is extremely important. Without a reliable supply of oxygen, it is difficult to achieve the state necessary for refreshing invigorating sleep.
Because of this, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health conditions.
What if you or your partner are diagnosed with
sleep apnea?
For many people, treatment for sleep apnea with a CPAP machine has made a world of difference for their sleep. Although it may take some getting used to, many find that their overall health and well-being has improved. Learn more about sleep apnea treatment here.
Aren’t CPAP machines noisy?
A common complaint about a CPAP machine is that they can be noisy. The noise that is produced is more like white noise, it is even and continuous. And with time you will get used to the sound and have a much better sleep. Even your bed partner will get a better sleep when they don’t have to listen to the song of snoring.
CPAP noise shouldn’t be a concern! With new technology coming out every year for CPAP treatment, machines are becoming more comfortable and quieter than ever. For example, the newly updated AirFit N30i from ResMed will soon be available to patients at Respiratory Homecare Solutions. The AirFit N30i is equipped with a softer silicon seal that is more flexible while still providing a great seal, ensuring a much quieter sleep.