Snoring is more than just an annoying nighttime noise; it can be a sign of underlying health issues. Whether it is a snoring partner who cannot sleep well or you wake up tired, snoring is a symptom that should not be dismissed. Consult a professional to determine whether you or your loved one has a snoring problem. In this blog, we will examine signs that indicate the need to consult Dr. Harker in Hayden for a snoring evaluation and discuss some of the ways seeking treatment can improve one's quality of life.

What Causes Snoring?

First, it is necessary to consider what originally causes one to snore. Snoring arises when the passage of air through the mouth and nose is partially obstructed during sleep. The noise you make while snoring comes from the vibration in your throat tissues as you breathe in and out. The list includes nasal congestion, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, obesity, consumption of alcohol, and even sleeping position. While snoring is relatively common, it can also be a symptom of more serious conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea.

Signs You Might Need a Snoring Evaluation

1. You Feel Tired Even After a Full Night’s Sleep

Waking up feeling groggy after a whole night's rest is one of the most common symptoms that your snoring may be related to sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. This is because snoring can disrupt the sleep cycle, resulting in you waking up many times throughout the night without even realizing it. If this is occurring consistently for you, it's a sign that a snoring consultation with Dr. Harker could be in your best interest.

2. Your snoring has gotten louder or happens more often.

If your snoring has recently become louder or occurs more frequently, this may be a sign that the problem is worsening. An increase in the loudness or frequency of snoring can indicate an obstruction within one's airway related to the nasal passages, throat relaxation, or serious sleep conditions like sleep apnea. It's time to consult a professional if you sense a change within yourself.

3. Your Partner Complains About Your Snoring

Snoring can greatly impact those around you in terms of the quality of their sleep. If your partner consistently complains about your snoring and you frequently wake up to their frustration, that is usually a sign that it is time to assess your situation. Being considerate toward your loved one isn't all there is to it; it's about your health. A snoring treatment evaluation will look into your best options.

4. You experience difficulty breathing while sleeping

Other warning signs include experiencing gasping or choking sensations while sleeping. This is a sign that your airway might be obstructed. At times, it may be associated with sleep apnea, a condition in which a person's breathing stops and starts intermittently during sleep. If you or your partner notices this, it is crucial to seek professional assistance to avoid any long-term complications.

5. You Wake Up With a Dry Mouth or Sore Throat

A morning dry mouth or sore throat may signal that you have been breathing through your mouth during sleep, which is quite common for people who snore loudly. This further irritates the throat. If this happens frequently, it's a good idea to consult Dr. Harker for a snoring evaluation to determine the cause and explore possible treatments.

Snoring is often viewed as a minor concern; however, it may be an early sign of a serious health condition. If you are experiencing any of the signs covered in this blog, it is time to see Dr. Harker in Hayden for a snoring evaluation. Contact Northwest Natural Dentistry to schedule an appointment.