HOW IS SNORING INVOLVED AND WHAT CAUSES IT?
Snoring is the turbulent sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep. When the airway is sufficiently reduced and the flow of air is partially obstructed, snoring may occur. Large tonsils, a long soft palate, a large uvula, and excess fat deposits, all contribute to airway narrowing. As air tries to pass through these obstructions, the throat structures vibrate causing the sound we recognize as snoring. Loud snoring is a common presenting complaint of those diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. However, loud snoring does not in itself mean that one has obstructive sleep apnea.
