Seasonal Snoring: Understanding and Managing It
Individuals may experience an increase in snoring as the seasons shift, indicating they might be ‘seasonal snorers’. Factors such as allergies, colds, and weather changes can intensify nighttime noise production. For those whose snoring varies with the seasons, here are potential explanations and solutions.
Spring/Summer
Allergies, particularly pollen allergies or hay fever, can exacerbate snoring. Pollen entering through the nose can lead to increased blood flow and the release of inflammatory molecules, resulting in nasal blockage. This compels mouth breathing, which dries out throat tissue and causes snoring. To combat this, consider the following tips:
- Shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair.
- Keep windows closed and vacuum regularly to eliminate pollen from surfaces and fabrics. Use a damp cloth for dusting to help pollen stick to the cloth instead of scattering.
- Use nasal decongestants like Snoreeze Nasal Spray to alleviate blocked nasal passages and improve breathing.
Autumn/Winter
Colder temperatures heighten the risk of viral infections due to increased indoor activity and reduced exposure to sunlight and vitamin D. Cold weather may also weaken the initial immune response. Colds attack the upper respiratory tract, causing nasal swelling and blockage, leading to mouth breathing, narrowed airways, and turbulent airflow, which can result in snoring. Here are some strategies for better sleep during these seasons:
- Prop up your head with an extra pillow to help sinus drainage and reduce congestion.
- If available, use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the bedroom air.
- Take a hot shower before bed to help open nasal passages.
- Consider using products like Snoreeze Nasal Spray and Nasal Strips to open airways and provide relief from snoring for up to 8 hours.
Seasonal snorers would benefit from implementing these simple measures to lessen their snoring. Not only can this improve their own health and sleep quality, but it can also be a relief for their partners.
