Snoring – harmless or a health concern?
Almost everyone has snored at some point – whether due to a cold or after too much wine. But when does snoring become a problem? And how can you tell if it's harmless or requires a closer examination?
Snoring reduces sleep quality – also for the bed partner
When is snoring harmless – and when is it not?
Occasional snoring is usually harmless. It becomes problematic when snoring:
occurs regularly
is very loud
or is accompanied by daytime fatigue, concentration problems, or breathing pauses
Loud or persistent snoring can indicate that oxygen supply is disturbed during sleep. This puts the body under stress, and sleep loses its restorative function. As a result, one feels exhausted in the morning – even after getting enough sleep.
How does snoring occur?
Snoring occurs due to a narrowing of the upper airways, which causes air to flow faster and vibrate the soft tissues in the throat area – creating the typical snoring sound.
Common causes include:
The tongue falls backward during sleep and blocks the throat
The nasal passages are too narrow – for example, due to a deviated septum or enlarged mucous membranes
The muscles in the throat relax and partially collapse
Enlarged tonsils or other lymphatic structures obstruct airflow
A recessed lower jaw further narrows the airway
What can be done about snoring?
The good news: In many cases, snoring can be treated effectively. It is important to identify the cause – because only then can the correct therapy be chosen.
Possible therapeutic approaches:
Anti-snoring device (mandibular advancement device): Gently shifts the lower jaw forward, keeping the airways open – ideal as a first step
Myofunctional therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen the tongue and throat muscles
Lingual Frenectomy: If a too-short lingual frenulum prevents correct tongue posture
Maxillary Expansion: Through skeletal widening, the nasal floor can be expanded – which facilitates nasal breathing.
ENT Procedures: e.g., straightening of the nasal septum or removal of enlarged tonsils.
Permanent Mandibular Advancement: a surgical measure for severe recession.
Mouth Taping: Taping the mouth shut overnight – sounds unusual, but can help train nasal breathing.
Waking up refreshed in the morning – not a pipe dream.
Good sleep is not a luxury, but a central building block for your health, performance, and well-being. If you suffer from snoring – or those around you do – a targeted diagnosis is worthwhile.
I take the time to work with you to find the cause and seek a suitable solution.
