Snoring

A common problem for many people that occurs during sleep is the phenomenon of snoring-this very common condition usually causes no problems for the person snoring. But, snoring can seriously disturb other people sleeping near the snorer. Men are more likely to snore compared to women. In any case, approximately half of all people will snore from time to time when sleeping, and among this one quarter will regularly snore every night. An obstructive sleep apnea may be the cause for snoring in severe and persistent cases, during this condition, a recurring inability to breathe will cause sudden gasps for air occur when the person is asleep. The sleep pattern is affected by the presence of this sleep; as a consequence the sufferers will not be able to get complete rest during the sleep, despite never being woken from the sleep itself. Repetitive disruptions in the respiratory patterns will in addition affect the heart and may lead to other complications for the person.

A slight obstruction in the respiratory passages is the main cause for the occurrence of snoring in an individual who is asleep. The presence of colds, all kinds of allergies or even nasal polyps can induce the behavior of snoring even in individuals who do not normally snore at night. The actual mechanism involved in snoring can be understood in this way, when a person lies down on his or her back, this will cause the tongue to sink back into the area of the throat-the result is a slight blockage of the throat making the noise typical of snoring. The use of additional pillows and some other simple measures such as turning to one side while sleeping will greatly ease the propensity for snoring in the individual. Snoring is much more likely to be a problem with obese or overweight individuals. This is because the extra weight in the body will add bulk to the throat, this result in a constriction of the throat and a mild blockage of the respiratory passages. Snoring can also be caused by the use of certain medications like sleeping pills and antihistamines-this can produce a lot of relaxation in the muscles of the throat and cause snoring. Snoring is also normal after the consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol and cigarette smoking just before bedtime-these factors will worsen the condition or bring it about.

Supplements and herbs

The use of many supplemental vitamin and mineral compounds is not appropriate in treating this condition. A compound called N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), which is a chemical derivative of the amino acid cysteine, may however be used to some extent, as it has a powerful ability to dissolve the excessive mucus present in the respiratory tract of the affected individual. This is a good remedy for the person, patricianly when the snoring has come about as a result of mucus congestion in the respiratory passages; the results of the NAC treatment begin to be evident within a few weeks of supplementation.

When used over a long period of time, the following herbs and herbal remedies will bring relief from the snoring.

To treat a case of snoring, rub a few drops of herbal Japanese mint oil along the back of the hand and inhale deeply for some time just before sleeping. An herbal remedy made from mixing equal parts of the sage leaves and linden flowers can also be used in the treatment of snoring in individuals affected by the condition. This herbal remedy can be prepared by using a single cup of water to boil a tsp. of the herbal mixture, let the herbs steep for ten minutes and then strain the solution. The patient must drink a cup of the herbal remedy every day for three weeks to gain relief from snoring.

Additional things you may do

Before going to sleep, ensure that the bedroom you are sleeping in has been thoroughly aired and has proper ventilation. It is also a good idea not to smoke inside the bedroom and also to avoid smoking at least three hours before sleep. Use a neck roll instead of a pillow when going to sleep. If you are persistently affected by snoring during sleep, lie on your stomach and go to sleep-this will bring temporary relief from snoring.

Usual dosage

• N-acetyl-cysteine, 3000-5000 mg in divided doses.

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