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Snoring

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Definition:

Snoring is a loud, hoarse, or harsh breathing sound that happens while you are asleep.

Considerations:

Snoring is common in adults and usually is not an indication of an underlying disorder.

Sometimes, however, snoring can be a sign of a serious sleep disorder called sleep apnea . This means you have periods when you are not breathing for more than 10 seconds while you sleep. These periods of "apnea" are indicated by a long period of silence just after you have been snoring. They are followed by a sudden snort or gasp when breathing resumes. Then, snoring starts all over again. If you have sleep apnea, this cycle generally happens several times a night.

The major risk from this condition is stroke due to episodes when your brain is not getting enough oxygen. If sleep apnea is suspected, your doctor (or a sleep specialist) can test you for it by doing a sleep study either at home or in a hospital setting.

Common Causes:

In most people, the reason for snoring is not known. The following are potential causes other than sleep apnea:

• Sleeping pills, antihistamines, or alcohol at bedtime
• Nasal congestion from colds or allergies, especially if it lasts a long time
• Enlarged adenoids and tonsils that block the airway
• Being overweight, which leads to excessive neck tissue that puts pressure on the airway
• Last month of pregnancy

References:

Tung A. The Biology and Genetics of Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Anesthesiol Clin North America . 2005; 23(3): 445-461.

Goh YH. The physiologic impact of sleep apnea on wakefulness. Otolaryngol Clin North Am . 2003; 36(3): 423-435, v.

• Review Date: 2/1/2006
• Reviewed By: Alden J. Pearl M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center atBrooklyn, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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