Does your partner tell you that you snore when you sleep? We snore for many reasons. If you find that you have a problem with snoring, it is easy to assume the culprit is blocking your airway when you sleep.
However, there are other issues that can cause snoring. On this page, we are taking a look at the less common reasons for snoring.
Misaligned Teeth
As we age, our mouths change. Look at your teeth in the mirror and you will find that they probably don't look the same. They may be closing together. Some may even lean to the left or right.
The way your teeth are positioned in your mouth can cause snoring. For instance, misaligned teeth can make it difficult for you to close your mouth. That can in turn lead to you breathing through your mouth at night. When you breathe through your mouth, you are much more likely to snore. Not only that, many night-time "mouth breathers" also suffer from a dry mouth and throat. A dry mouth also leads to snoring. If you wake up with a dry mouth in the morning, it is a good idea to visit a dentist.
Fungus and Mold in the Home
Many years ago, the Scandinavians recognised a health condition called Sick House Syndrome. It means that your home has excess mold and fungus growing in it. They quickly realised that mold and fungus cause a range of health conditions including asthma and reduced lung function. If you snore but can't find a solution to the problem, it is a good idea to check if you have excess mold or fungus in your home.
Your Weight
Does your weight influence your sleep? Many people who are obese or overweight claim that their weight does not influence their sleep quality.
However, excessive weight is the most common cause of sleep apnea and snoring. Excess weight forms fatty deposits in the throat area putting strain on the throat muscles causing you to snore. A doctor can help to identify sleep apnea. Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can help yourself. Needless to say, self-help measures include weight loss and throat exercises. A mouth guard is also likely to help.
In Conclusion
Finding the reason or reasons behind your snoring is important. Your first port of call is to check your oral health. If your dentist can't find a problem, you should visit a doctor. A medical professional can explore the reasons why you snore in several different ways. However, in most occasions, snoring is solved by using a mouth guard, changing your sleep and with it improving your lifestyle.