Snoring

Considerations:
Snorers are often not aware that they snore. Snoring is usually very normal and not an indication of an underlying disorder.

Rarely, snoring can be an indication of a serious sleep disorder ( sleep apnea ). People who snore and have quiet periods lasting more than 10 seconds have some degree of sleep apnea and are at risk for chronic hypoxia (a condition where there is an insufficient blood oxygen level).

Common Causes:

Note: There may be other causes of snoring. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for snoring, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
Weight loss can sometimes greatly reduce snoring. If snoring is a result of too much alcohol or sedation at bedtime, then reduce consumption or cut it out altogether. Avoid sleeping flat on the back; sleep on the side if possible.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:



What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting snoring in detail may include:

  • quality
    • Is it loud?
    • Does it occur when the person is in any position?
    • Does it occur only when they are in a particular position?
    • Is the snoring irregular?
    • Can the snoring be heard by the person who snores (that is, does the sound of their snoring cause them to wake up)?

  • time pattern
    • Does it occur every night?
    • How often does snoring occur?
    • Is snoring persistent during the night?
    • Does the person snore 1 or 2 times per minute during snoring episodes?

  • other
    • What other symptoms are also present?
    • Is there a period of breath holding?
    • Are there episodes of not breathing?
    • Does the person have headaches ?
    • Does the person have difficulty sleeping ?

The physical examination may include an investigation into sleep patterns. Referral to a sleep specialist (for sleep studies ) may be indicated.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to snoring to your personal medical record.


A cross-section illustration of the mouth, nasal cavity, and throat. The nasal passages are also visible.



Tonsillectomy is a frequently performed surgery in which the tonsils (and occasionally adenoids) are removed. This is usually done if there are verified repeat episodes of streptococcal infection, obstruction of the airway or excessive snoring, sleep apnea (breathing stops when sleeping), or other more rare conditions. The number of tonsillectomies has decreased during the last 10 years as the indications have been better defined.