Why Is My Partner’s Snoring Worse Some Nights Than Others?

You care deeply about your significant other, but when they sound like a chainsaw at night, it can definitely be annoying. Have you noticed that their snoring in Glastonbury is worse on some nights than others? There may be solid reasons behind that. Let’s talk about those reasons so you and your partner can make adjustments to reduce their snoring and help them enjoy higher-quality sleep.

Relaxed Muscles Lead to Snoring

When you and your partner are unwinding after a long day, or when you’re enjoying a romantic date night, you might indulge in alcohol. While certain alcoholic beverages, such as red wine, can have health benefits, they can all cause increased snoring. That’s because alcohol is a depressant, which means that it “depresses” the central nervous system, leading to an increased level of relaxation. When the orofacial structures, such as the tongue and throat, become too relaxed, they can collapse, narrowing the airway and leading to the vibrations that are otherwise known as snoring.

Alcohol isn’t the only drug that can have this effect. Muscle relaxants can do the same thing. Other medications, such as antihistamines, can also contribute to snoring because they dry out throat and can cause it to become slightly swollen.

To help your partner manage their snoring, you might suggest that they:

• Do not drink alcohol in the last couple of hours before bed, and be sure to drink only in moderation.
• Only take other snore-inducing drugs as necessary. Your partner might even try out alternative medications that cause less snoring.

Sleeping Position and Snoring

Does your partner snore more when they sleep flat on their back? That’s because gravity encourages the lower jaw to fall. Thereafter, the tongue can restrict the airway and lead to snoring. If your partner sleeps on their side or stomach, they may snore less. Or, if they prefer to sleep on their back, propping themselves up with an extra pillow or two might help them breathe easier at night.

Is There Any Way to Stop Snoring Altogether?

If your partner regularly snores, and the above lifestyle adjustments help only a little (or not at all), they may be suffering from sleep apnea in Glastonbury. This condition, which causes loud snoring and short periods of not breathing (apneas) during the night, is often chronic in nature. It is not only annoying, but it can also lead to serious health complications, such as exhaustion, difficulty with weight control, and heart problems.

If you suspect that your partner has sleep apnea, encourage them to visit a sleep medicine expert for diagnosis and treatment. A CPAP machine or custom oral appliance may be just what they need to enjoy easier breathing.

If you love your partner but dread their snoring, use the above suggestions to help them out. Both of you will enjoy better rest and maybe even a more peaceful relationship!

Dr. Keith Hollinger is a dentist with decades of experience in helping patients to cope with snoring and sleep apnea. He is also a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. If you or your partner are longing for a better night’s rest, Dr. Hollinger and our team would be happy to help! Contact us at 972-496-0515.