The Link Between Obesity and Snoring
There are many things that can cause snoring, but in our society obesity is often the most common. You may wonder what excess body weight could possibly have to do with snoring, but it is all thanks to fat that deposits itself around your neck. This increases pressure on the airways making it more difficult to breathe and potentially creating obstructions.
Loss of muscle tone in the throat area also can contribute to snoring problems. Therefore it's not just weight you need to lose but you need to exercise as well. Exercise not only burns fat but helps tone muscles, all of which will help to reduce and/or eliminate your snoring.
Snoring is more than just annoying for you and your partner. Not only does it prevent you from getting a good night's rest, but it can be potentially hard on your heart since your body is struggling to get the oxygen it needs. You may also find you often have headaches, a sore throat, and a dry mouth.
If you snore you may have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition in which you actually stop breathing while you are sleeping. While sleep apnea in itself isn't terribly dangerous (you won't die of asphyxiation), it can lead to serious heart problems such as strokes and heart attacks. People afflicted with sleep apnea often find themselves tired during the day and in need of naps. Sleep apnea not only affects your life from day to day but can have detrimental health affects in the long term. The solution for sleep apnea is often a device which forces your airways to remain open while you sleep. If you snore you should speak to your doctor about to rule out sleep apnea.
Snoring can not only be a problem for you but for your partner as well. Studies have shown that partners of snorers can lose up to one hour of sleep per night thanks to constant waking up. If you or your partner snores and your doctor believes it is weight related, start exercising now and enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
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