For most people snoring is an annoying and embarrassing occurrence affecting not only themselves but also their partner.

However, the latest research suggests that snoring is not just an inconvenience but could be a potential sign of a much more severe health condition – stroke. In this article, we will explore the link between snoring and the risk of a stroke.

What is stroke?

Stroke occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain. It can be caused by a blocked blood vessel or a ruptured artery in the brain.

When the blood supply is obstructed, the brain cells are deprived of oxygen and essential nutrients, causing them to die off rapidly, and brain damage can occur.

What causes snoring?

Snoring is caused by the vibration of the soft tissues in the back of the throat during sleep. This vibration can be caused by several factors; some of the most common are:.

Excessive relaxation of the tongue and throat muscles
Narrow airways in the nose, mouth, or throat
Obesity or excess weight around the neck
Alcohol consumption
Smoking

The relationship between snoring and stroke risk

According to research, the risk of stroke is higher in people who snore frequently and loudly. The blockage of the airways that causes snoring can lead to a lack of oxygen in the blood, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure.

When blood pressure increases, the risk of stroke increases as well. Furthermore, the lack of oxygen can also lead to irregular heartbeats, which can lead to the formation of blood clots that can cause stroke.

A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that the severity of snoring is directly proportional to the risk of stroke. The study showed that people who snore more than three times a week have an increased risk of experiencing a stroke.

Additionally, the more severe the snoring is, the greater the risk of stroke.

The types of stroke that are associated with snoring

There are two types of stroke, ischemic and hemorrhagic. Both types of stroke have been associated with snoring.

Ischemic stroke: This type of stroke is caused by a blockage in the blood vessels in the brain. Sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, has been associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke.
Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke is caused by the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. According to research, people with obstructive sleep apnea, a severe form of sleep apnea, are at a greater risk of experiencing a hemorrhagic stroke.

How to reduce the risk of stroke associated with snoring

The good news is that snoring can be treated, and in turn, the risk of stroke can be reduced. Some of the ways to reduce the risk of stroke associated with snoring include:.

Lifestyle changes: Changing your lifestyle by losing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake can help reduce the risk of snoring and stroke.
CPAP: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a treatment that involves wearing a mask that delivers air pressure to keep the airways open while sleeping.
Positional therapy: Sleeping on the side instead of the back can help reduce snoring, as it prevents the tongue and soft tissues from falling back and obstructing the airways.

Conclusion

Snoring may seem like a harmless and annoying occurrence, but it could be a warning sign of a severe health condition. The link between snoring and stroke risk is real, and it’s essential to take steps to reduce the risk.

Lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, and positional therapy are some of the ways to reduce the risk of stroke associated with snoring. If you or a loved one snores frequently, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and the best course of treatment.