There are two types of snoring: primary and OSA. Someone can have just one type or a combination of both. Snoring is mostly caused by the tongue relaxing, falling into the throat and hitting the uvula. This blocks the airway and results in snoring.
Primary snoring is many times called ‘sawing wood’, noisy snoring, ‘cutting zees’ and simple snoring. This simple means making loud noises while sleeping without cessation of breath. OSA stands for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This is when air passages are blocked so badly that it becomes hard to breath.
There is no product available to cure snoring, but there are some that give relief. Most products have effective results, but have side effects as well.
1. PAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Appliances). This is a sleep mask connected to a pump that applies pressure to keep the throat open. Although showing effective results, many users find it inconvenient, uncomfortable and stop using it within the first year. Side effects from it include: dry nose, nose bleeds, upper respiratory infections, bloating, irritation in the throat, sinus infections, skin irritation, anxiety, insomnia, pressure in the ears and headaches.
2. Dental Appliances. There are three types of dental appliances but one is only considered to be effective and safe: devices that retain the tongue. These impede the ability to swallow while sleeping. Side effects of these included tooth discomfort, mucosal dryness and excessive salivation.
3. Snoreplasty. This is a nonsurgical treatment where a hardening agent in injected into the upper palate. The only known side effect is the feeling of something stuck in the throat.
4. Aromatherapy. This therapy is the blending of essential oil as a way to relax the respiratory system. Possible rare side effects include headache, fever, damage to liver and verves and harm to a fetus.