What is snoring?

Snoring is the coarse fluttering sound created by the vibrations of the soft palate and other tissue in the mouth, nose & throat.

Snoring is usually a combination of:

- restricted nasal airways forcing air through the mouth; and

- relaxed soft tissue at the back of the mouth (the soft palate).

As air is forced over the soft palate, it vibrates. This vibration resonates in the mouth and emanates as a snore.

Why does snoring occur at night?

When we are awake there is strong blood flow to the soft palate and other tissue. This keeps the muscles toned and the airway in good shape. However during sleep, the muscles in the body relax, and as the muscles in the throat relax, the airway partly closes. This is normal. Air comes into and out of the lungs through this airway.

However, if the air flow in the throat and nose is obstructed, the air passage is narrowed, which causes snoring. Since the muscles of the soft palate and throat are relaxed they may not be able to prevent the airway tissue vibrating.

What makes snoring worse?

Milk drinks, smoking, dust, allergies, colds and flu can all lead to a build-up of nasal mucus; while carrying extra weight can also cause pressure on the throat during sleep. In addition, alcohol or simple ageing can slacken the soft palate tissue.