What causes snoring?

Snoring can be caused by enlarged tonsils, the nose structure or excess weight around the neck. During sleep, our neck muscles can relax so much that in some cases the throat partly closes and becomes narrow, causing the vibration sound known as snoring.

Watch video

Why do people snore?

Some people snore and some don't. Here's why:

  1. 1

    People with enlarged tonsils or an enlarged tongue are more likely to snore.

  2. 2

    People with extra weight around the neck are more likely to snore.

  3. 3

    The shape of one’s nose or jaw can also cause snoring.

icon-eyebrow-information-black

Facts about snoring

sleep-apnea-global-icon-blue-circle-percent

Snoring is common

40% of normal adults snore regularly. 1 Source: Ohayon MM et al., “Snoring and breathing pauses during sleep: telephone interview survey of a United Kingdom population sample”. BMJ. (1997); 314:860–3.

sleep-apnea-global-icon-blue-circle-partners

Family and partners lose sleep

95% of snorers say their snoring bothers their family or partner. 2 Source: A +A Healthcare study undertaken with 95 patients who wore Narval CC (Equinoxe in France) in 2011.

sleep-apnea-global-icon-blue-circle-sign

Snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea

Snoring and fatigue are the most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), 3 Source: Mendes F et al., “Epidemiologic Profile of Patients with Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a University Hospital,” Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol (2014):142–145. and approximately 1 in 3 people have OSA. 4 Source: Benjafield AV et al. Estimation of the global prevalence and burden of obstructive sleep apnoea: A literature-based analysis. Vol 7:8; 687-98. Lancet Respir Med 2019

What to do if you snore

4 steps to take if you or a loved one snores:

01

Take ResMed's free sleep assessment

The most common sign of sleep apnea is snoring. Complete a quick 3-minute assessment to see if you might be at risk for sleep apnea.

Start now

02

Talk to your doctor and dentist

After taking the sleep assessment, discuss your symptoms and results with your doctor. Your dentist may also be able to provide guidance.

03

Take a sleep test at a clinic or at home

Your doctor may recommend you schedule a sleep test to get a better idea of your snoring habits. It can be done in a sleep test clinic or in the comfort of your home.

04

Discuss treatment options

Your doctor will review your sleep test results. If you're diagnosed with sleep apnea, you'll receive a prescription for CPAP therapy and equipment, which may also help your snoring. Here's a helpful overview of treatment options and what you can expect after diagnosis.

Explore options
icon-eyebrow-compass-black

Keep exploring

sleep-apnea-global-father-daughter-on-bicycle

What is sleep apnea?

Learn about the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea and the benefits of therapy.

Learn more
sleep-apnea-causes-snoring-woman-chin-resting-on-hands

Do I have sleep apnea?

Take our free sleep assessment and find out if you might be at risk for sleep apnea in just 3 minutes.

Take assessment
sleep-apnea-global-woman-on-couch-with-laptop

Need any help?

Having any difficulties? talk to us so we can make our CPAP journey even better

Talk to us

References

1

Source: Ohayon MM et al., “Snoring and breathing pauses during sleep: telephone interview survey of a United Kingdom population sample”. BMJ. (1997); 314:860–3.

1

Source: Ohayon MM et al., “Snoring and breathing pauses during sleep: telephone interview survey of a United Kingdom population sample”. BMJ. (1997); 314:860–3.

2

Source: A +A Healthcare study undertaken with 95 patients who wore Narval CC (Equinoxe in France) in 2011.

3

Source: Mendes F et al., “Epidemiologic Profile of Patients with Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a University Hospital,” Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol (2014):142–145.

4

Source: Benjafield AV et al. Estimation of the global prevalence and burden of obstructive sleep apnoea: A literature-based analysis. Vol 7:8; 687-98. Lancet Respir Med 2019

© ResMed All rights reserved