Why do people snore?

What causes snoring?

In overweight or elderly individuals, the soft palate tissue is larger, causing the soft tissues of the upper airway to relax and narrow during sleep. When air passes through the narrowed soft palate tissue at the back of the throat, it vibrates, leading to the "snoring" sound.

打鼻鼾時的上呼吸道 Upper airway during snoring
 
What causes snoring?
Causes of snoring include obesity, old age, alcohol consumption, genetics, smoking, medication side effects, sleeping position, pregnancy, colds, or fatigue, among others.
 
What are the effects of snoring on the body?
Snoring sounds typically range between 60 and 100 decibels, similar to conversation or even as loud as a vacuum cleaner. This not only affects one's own sleep quality but can also prevent partners from sleeping. Many patients with sleep apnea seek medical help after being complained about by their partners.
Severe snoring can also lead to carotid artery thickening, which can cause strokes, heart failure, heart attacks, and more.
 
Snoring is one symptom of sleep apnea. It is estimated that 80% of sleep apnea patients are unaware of their condition and do not receive treatment. It is advisable to consult a specialist doctor for diagnosis as soon as possible.

 

In addition to adults, children may also snore. If a child snores frequently, they should be examined by a specialist doctor as soon as possible.