Snoring, while often dismissed as a simple annoyance, is a common problem that can significantly impact the quality of sleep. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 45 percent of adults snore occasionally, and about 25 percent are habitual snorers. But why does this matter? Snoring can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and health issues. It can also disrupt your bed partner’s sleep, which can lead to relationship stress.
Luckily, there are a few lifestyle changes that can help reduce the likelihood of snoring – including switching to an adjustable bed. How? We’re here to discuss the ways these beds may help alleviate snoring, leading to better sleep for everyone involved.
What Is Snoring and Why Does it Happen?
Snoring is the sound that results from the vibration of respiratory structures due to obstructed air movement during sleep. In other words, it’s the body’s way of saying something is blocking the airway. But what causes this obstruction? There are several factors to consider.
One important factor is sleep position. The sleeping position can significantly contribute to snoring. People who sleep on their backs are more likely to snore because gravity can cause the tongue to fall back into the throat, which can block the airway.
Lifestyle factors such as obesity and alcohol consumption can lead to snoring. Excess weight can lead to extra tissue in the throat that can obstruct the airway. Alcohol, on the other hand, can relax the muscles in the throat, making it more likely to snore.
Other factors include age, nasal and sinus problems, smoking, and certain medications. As we age, the muscle tone in our throat decreases, and our throat becomes narrower, making us more likely to snore. This is particularly evident in men, who naturally have narrower air passages than women.
How Can Snoring Impact Sleep Quality and Health?
Snoring can have a significant impact on sleep quality. It can lead to frequent waking during the night, leading to daytime fatigue and irritability. It’s also not just the snorer who suffers. Bed partners of snorers often report disrupted sleep, which can lead to relationship stress.
Snoring may also be a sign of a more serious health condition known as sleep apnea. This is a disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or periods of shallow breathing during sleep. Snoring often accompanies sleep apnea because the same factors that cause snoring — such as relaxed throat muscles or a narrowed airway — also contribute to sleep apnea. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to a range of health problems.
Recent research also suggests that chronic snoring may correlate with cardiac issues down the line. This suggests that habitual snoring is not something to be ignored or dismissed but rather a health issue that requires attention and, potentially, a change in sleep habits or lifestyles.
Can Adjustable Beds Help With Snoring?
Adjustable beds offer a range of benefits for those looking for a good night’s sleep, and one of these is potentially reducing snoring. But how do adjustable beds work, and why might they help with snoring?
Adjustable beds are designed with the flexibility to change the bed’s position according to your needs. One key feature that can help alleviate snoring is the ability to elevate the head. By raising the head, gravity can help keep the airway more open, potentially reducing the vibration of the respiratory structures that cause snoring and ultimately leading to healthier, happier sleep.
What Are Other Ways To Mitigate Snoring?
While adjustable beds can be a helpful tool in reducing snoring, there are a number of other strategies and treatments that can also help mitigate snoring.
Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption, can significantly reduce snoring. Regular physical activity can also help, as it can lead to better sleep and less snoring. For those with mobility issues, gentle exercises like walking or yoga can still help get your blood pumping and promote better respiratory function, potentially mitigating snoring.
Certain medical treatments can also help. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which is an oral appliance designed to keep the airway open, is a common treatment for those with sleep apnea. Nasal strips or decongestants can also provide support if your snoring is due to nasal congestion. Nasal strips can open nasal passages, while decongestants can clear them, reducing the likelihood of snoring.
Good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable and quiet sleep environment, and avoiding heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime, can also make a big difference.
Remember, everyone is unique, and what works best for you will depend on your personal circumstances and health needs. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to identify the most effective strategies for you.
How To Choose the Best Adjustable Bed for Snoring
When it comes to choosing an adjustable bed to help with snoring, there are several things to consider. Look for a bed that allows for easy and comfortable head elevation. Also, consider the bed’s adjustability features. A bed that offers fully adjustable height, head, and foot options — such as a New Valiant Adjustable Bed at Transfer Master — provides the flexibility you need to find the most comfortable and effective position for you.
It’s also important to consider the bed’s aesthetic. A bed that fits naturally into your home environment can make the transition to an adjustable bed much easier. At Transfer Master, all of our beds are designed to fit naturally and aesthetically into your home. With fully adjustable features and an intuitive, user-friendly remote, these beds are designed with your comfort, safety, and lifestyle in mind.
The Bottom Line
Snoring can significantly impact sleep quality and overall health. But there’s good news. Adjustable beds, with their ability to elevate the head and provide personalized comfort, may help reduce snoring. Coupled with lifestyle modifications, medical interventions, and good sleep hygiene, an adjustable bed could be an effective tool in your journey towards better sleep.
At Transfer Master, our line of adjustable home beds offers a range of features tailored to your needs, from head elevation to a user-friendly remote. With the right adjustable bed, a good night’s sleep could be just a few adjustments away.
Reach out to our bed experts today. We’re here to help you find the right solution for you.
Sources:
Why Do People Snore? Answers for Better Health | Johns Hopkins Medicine.
The effect of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea on the sleep quality of bed partners | PMC
Snoring and carotid artery disease: A new risk factor emerges | PMC
