The German Association of Otolaryngologists said that snoring is caused by the vibration of the soft parts of the upper respiratory tract, often due to the relaxation of the palate and the uvula, noting that this vibration increases when the muscle tension decreases when sleeping, which causes a narrowing (obstruction) of the upper respiratory tract.

The association added that snoring may also be due to some anatomical characteristics, such as the large size of the tonsils, the narrowing of the pharynx, or the small lower jaw.

Rhythmic and non-rhythmic snoring

The association added that snoring is divided into two types: rhythmic and non-rhythmic.

In the case of rhythmic snoring, the uvula oscillates back and forth with each breath.

This is disturbing to those around, but it does not pose a danger to the patient himself, other than suffering from some problems, such as headaches, poor concentration and drowsiness the next day, in addition to dry mouth and sweating.

In contrast, non-rhythmic snoring, which is a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea - the regular stopping of breathing during sleep - increases the risk of stroke, heart attack and high blood pressure.

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome causes the upper airways to become blocked for at least 10 seconds at a rate of more than 10 times per hour.

The brain responds to a decrease in the level of oxygen;

The heartbeat speeds up and the patient descends from a deep sleep to a lighter sleep, causing the muscles to tighten and the respiratory tracts to open.

The cause of sleep-related breathing disorder can be determined with a cardiometer;

The device measures breathing, oxygen content in the blood, heart rate, and sleep status at night.

Endoscopy to determine the cause of snoring

An endoscopy can also be performed to determine the cause of snoring. During a sleep simulation, a sleep specialist examines the patient to see where the vibration is located.

If the narrowing is in the oral cavity or at the tonsils, surgery may be required, but symptoms may return again after a period of two to three years.

The standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is to wear a breathing mask during sleep, which compresses the upper airways to prevent muscle contraction during sleep.

special back cushions

Also, special back cushions are one of the means used in treatment;

As it prevents sleeping directly on the back so that the upper part of the body is raised by up to about 30 degrees.

The association recommends that people with obstructive sleep apnea, who are obese, use a breathing mask at night and exercise throughout the day;

Where losing weight rids them of the syndrome.


In general, snorers should quit alcohol, smoking, sleeping pills, and fatty meals before bed.