Snoring is very common and usually isn't caused by anything serious. There are things you can do to help yourself if it's a problem.
Snoring is caused by things such as your tongue, mouth, throat or airways in your nose vibrating as you breathe.
It happens because these parts of your body relax and narrow when you're asleep.
You're more likely to snore if you:
Sometimes it's caused by a condition like sleep apnoea, which is when your airways become temporarily blocked as you sleep.
Simple lifestyle changes can help stop or reduce snoring.
Your GP will look inside your mouth and nose to check for any problems that might be causing your snoring.
It can help to bring someone with you to your appointment who can describe what your snoring is like, such as a partner.
Your GP may refer you to a specialist for treatment or further tests if they're not sure what the cause is.
Talk to your doctor about the best treatment for you.
Possible cause | Treatments |
---|---|
Tongue partially blocking the back of your throat | a device you wear in your mouth to bring your tongue forward (mandibular advancement device) |
Mouth falling open when you're asleep | a chin strap to hold your mouth closed, or a device you wear in your mouth to make you breathe through your nose while you sleep (vestibular shield) |
Blocked or narrow airways in your nose | special devices (nasal dilators) or strips that hold your nose open while you sleep, or sprays to reduce swelling inside your nose |
Surgery is sometimes used to treat snoring if other treatments don't help.
But it's not widely available on the NHS, it doesn't always work and snoring can come back afterwards.