Right now there are hundreds of thousands of people snoring. If you want to know how to stop snoring, the cause will have to be determined first.

There are several reasons people snore and the best way to find the reason you have this problem is to go to a specialist. Not only can they find out why but they can help with a range of stop snoring solutions.

Finding Out Why You Snore

Strangely enough tonsilitis can actually be a cause of snoring and if it cannot be cured by drugs then surgery is usually the solution.

If the doctor suspects sleep apnea then he will usually send you for a sleep study otherwise known as a polysomnogram.

Simple tests can be carried out to see if there is something in your home that could be causing an allergic reaction and affecting your breathing.

There are many causes which can include feather pillows, household chemicals, perfumes and pet hair to name a few. The elimination of some of the causes may relieve the snoring problem.

There are also over the counter solutions for snoring. The use of nasal sprays will relieve the congestion caused by swelling. Strips that you can place across the nose may help by holding the nasal passages.

Those unfortunate people who sleep with their mouths open are prime candidates for being snorers. Special devices worn on the chin can be purchased to tackle this problem.

Another reason for snoring is a problem with your tongue. The base can get in the way of your breathing passage and this creates the snoring sound.

Physical remedies such as a mandibular advancement device can be used to pin your tongue against the lower jaw, this stops it from flapping and causing obstruction.

Still another reason for snoring is caused by the soft palate vibrating. This is called palatal flutter. The uvula and the soft palate vibrate and this causes snoring. The use of a throat spray may help by coating the tissues in the throat. This may let more air through and lessen the snoring.

Sleep apnea the silent killer

As mentioned previously, sleep apnea may be one of the causes of snoring. If you suspect this is a reason for snoring, do not try to find your own stop snoring solutions. Seek the advice of a professional.

Sleep apnea causes the sufferer to actually stop breathing, it is obstructive to restful sleep and can be dangerous especially if the person has a demanding physical job.

Because people stop breathing for ten seconds or more this affects the levels of oxygen reaching the heart and brain and can ultimately lead to organ failure.

This is not to say that everyone who has sleep apnea has it this bad. There are milder forms that can be taken care of simply by using a wedge pillow or elevating the head of their bed. However, it is always wise to make certain before trying to treat yourself.

Other potential causes of snoring include nasal blockages, sinus problems and being overweight.