If you're one of the 37 million Americans who snores, you'll want to keep reading this report. Not only can snoring ruin your partner's shuteye, but it may also be a warning sign of a potentially life-threatening condition.
Nasal strips don't always work. Instead, try lifestyle strategies to help keep your airway open and help you stop snoring.
Like easing a stuffy nose, elevating your head and sleeping on your side, avoiding alcohol at least four hours before bed, quitting smoking and – yes – also losing weight could help stop your snoring.
If these steps don't work, it's probably time to call a doctor who can test you for obstructive sleep apnea or OSA.
OSA, marked by breathing stops-and-starts during sleep, occurs when something partly or completely blocks your airway. It affects 34 percent of men and 19 percent of women who snore regularly and can heighten the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, cardiac arrhythmia and hypertension.
An oral appliance can help keep the airway open. Or your doctor might prescribe continuous positive airway pressure (or C-PAP) treatment, which uses a machine to increase air into your throat.
If all else fails, surgery may be your only other option. Consumer Reports says ask your doctor about procedures which can open up the airway and help you stop snoring.
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So don't underestimate the effects of snoring and let your partner get a good night's sleep!
