Other Snoring Causes

Snoring and Sleep Apnea are also caused by other factors

Smoking

Smoking is proven to cause inflamation of the airway, including the throat, soft palate, and uvula, causing the airway to be more resricted.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant, which relaxes one's muscles. Research has also proven that the risk of snoring an sleep apnea is increased due to alcohol consumption. Some people snore only when they drink - this is why.

Nasal Blockage

When the nasal airway is blocked, one will be forced to breathe through the mouth, increasing the risk of snoring and sleep apnea. The nasal passage can become blocked for many reasons including, allergies, sinusitis, nasal polyps, viral infections, and a deviated septum.

Allergies

Many things can cause an allergic response. This usually involves inflamation of the nasal airway, thus, causing the airway to become restricted, leading to snoring and sleep apnea.

Family History

A family history of snoring and sleep apnea, like many other diseases, increases one's risk of also having snoring and sleep apnea. This is usually caused by a one's genetics and any upper airway or facial abnormalities that were passed on.

Age

As we age, we usually gain weight and lose our muscle tone. This combination increases the instances of obstructive sleep apnea in the older population.

Gender

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is much more common in men than in women. According to studies, the ratio of OSA between men and women is 2.5 to 1. In addition, studies have discovered that women become more likely to develop OSA after menopause, due to the changes the body stores fat after hormone productions slows.