Snoring is a common problem for many people, often causing sleep disruptions and annoying bed partners. However, recent research has found that snoring may be more than just a nuisance, and may actually be linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

What is snoring?

Snoring is a common condition that occurs when the flow of air through the mouth and nose is partially blocked during sleep. This causes the tissue in the throat to vibrate, producing the familiar snoring sound.

What causes snoring?

There are a number of factors that can contribute to snoring, including:.

Obesity
Alcohol consumption
Smoking
Nasal congestion
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
Sleeping on your back

A recent study published in the journal Heart, Lung and Circulation found that people who snore are at increased risk of developing heart disease, particularly if they also have other risk factors such as obesity or high blood pressure.

The study found that snoring is associated with changes in the blood vessels that supply the heart and brain with oxygen and nutrients.

Specifically, snoring can cause the blood vessels to become stiffer and less responsive, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Other health risks associated with snoring

Snoring has also been linked to a number of other health risks, including:.

Obstructive sleep apnea
Headaches
Daytime fatigue
Depression
Anxiety

How can snoring be treated?

There are a number of treatments available for snoring, depending on the underlying cause. These include:.

Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed
Positional therapy, such as using pillows to keep you on your side while sleeping
Medical devices such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines or mandibular advancement devices (MADs)
Surgery to remove excess tissue in the throat

Can snoring be prevented?

There are a number of steps you can take to reduce your risk of snoring, including:.

Losing weight if you are overweight
Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed
Quitting smoking
Sleeping on your side
Treating nasal congestion

Conclusion

If you are a snorer, it is important to take steps to address the problem, not only to improve your quality of life but also to reduce your risk of heart disease and other serious health problems.

Talk to your doctor or a qualified sleep specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.