Sometimes, the best kind of help we can get are short-term fixes. We might find it useful to change our bodies, but many people would rather take "unnecessary" risks with easier methods.
In this article, we'll give you some ideas for how to deal with your annoying snoring.
You should know, however, that if you don't want to use any of the many technologically advanced methods, you can always stop snoring with natural methods that are less intense.
You might find that many of the new ways to stop snoring are just different versions of the sock-and-tennis-ball method, which was meant to make the snorer sleep on his side.
Snoring is a condition in which the breathing system makes sounds that echo while sleeping. Even though we breathe nonstop, the only time someone can snore is when he or she is the most tired.
The throat muscles only move when they are relaxed, which is why people who snore do so. This will then be moved by the regular flow of air, which makes the sounds. Most ways to stop snoring involve keeping these muscles in check.
But there is also a type of snoring that makes the person stop breathing for a short time (an average of 10 seconds for each episode). With an accurate diagnosis, good treatment plans can be made.
Even though there may not be a product that stops snoring for good, there are many ways to get some relief.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Appliance, or CPAP, is one of the best ways to stop snoring. This is a special mask that is hooked up to a pump. It keeps the throat from vibrating and putting pressure on the airway. This is best used for a short time, since most people who use it for a year say it makes them feel bad. The price is between $1,000 and $3,000.
The snorer's head must be kept up so he doesn't make loud, disturbing noises. This will take the pressure off the diaphragm and help keep the airway open. Even though adjustable beds may not be advertised as much as other products, they are thought to be helpful for treating people right away. These kinds of items cost between $800 and $1000.
Pillows that stop you from sleeping with your head flat are also available. Depending on who makes it, prices range from $20 to $75.
On the other hand, Nasal Valve Dilators are made for people who only snore a little bit. There are two basic kinds: the strip that sticks to the bridge of the nose and the strip that goes in the nose.
People who snore say that the latter makes sleeping uncomfortable and needs to be replaced every year, while the adhesive strip usually falls off during sleep and could cause skin irritation.
Stop snoring sprays are also available for people whose snoring is caused by swollen or mucus-clogged nasal passages. Be careful not to use "tissue softening sprays," though, because they can have bad side effects if you use them for a long time. Snoring is usually caused by a dry throat or stiff tissues in the respiratory tract, so most people think stop snoring spray is the least effective way to sleep well.
There are a lot of products that can help you stop snoring right away. Think of them as good help, but don't count on them to give you a permanent solution to sleep problems.