Definition: Noisy breathing due to constriction of the air passages. Constriction normally occurs as a result of muscles around the palate and tongue relaxing during sleep. Snoring can indicate problems in later life such as heart failure or strokes. It may be the cause of severe strain within a relationship and can indirectly be the cause of increased accidents at work. Lifestyle changes can reduce or stop snoring. Sometimes surgery may be recommended if the cause is clearly physical.

Related Resources:

Why Men Snore
Men snore more than women but often the treatment for snoring is fairly simple and easily within the grasp of the person causing all the noise. Even if others aren't troubled by snoring the fact that snoring occurs can indicate health problems ahead.

<Back to Last Page>     <Full Glossary>