Snoring Keeping You Up at Night? Here's What You Need to Know

If you or someone you live with snores, you’ll know how frustrating it can be.

Interrupted sleep, bleary-eyed mornings, and even tension in relationships can all start from one simple thing — snoring.

During National Stop Snoring Week (21st - 27th April), we're raising awareness of just how common snoring is, what causes it, and most importantly, what can help.

The facts about snoring in the UK

Snoring is far more common than many people realise. An estimated 45% of the UK adult population snore — whether regularly or occasionally.

It’s a condition that can affect anyone, but it’s especially prevalent in men aged between 40 and 60.

Despite being so widespread, the risks associated with snoring aren’t always well understood. In fact, 42% of people who either snore or live with a snorer have never even heard of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). This is a serious sleep-related breathing disorder that often goes hand-in-hand with snoring.

It’s estimated that around 1.5 million people in the UK are living with OSA. But here’s the worrying part: 85% of those cases are thought to be undiagnosed. That means hundreds of thousands of people are potentially living with the health consequences of disrupted sleep.

What causes snoring?

Snoring happens when airflow is partially blocked during sleep, usually because of a narrowing in the upper airway. This restricted airflow causes the soft tissues in the back of the throat to vibrate, which is what creates the familiar snoring sound.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of snoring. These include:

• Drinking alcohol before bed
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Sleeping on your back

While the volume and intensity of snoring can vary, some people can snore as loudly as 100 decibels. That is about as loud as a road drill!

Could it be more than just snoring?

For many people, snoring is simply a frustrating habit. But in some cases, it can be a sign of something more serious. Loud, persistent snoring (especially when combined with pauses in breathing, gasping, or frequent waking) may indicate Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

OSA happens when the airway becomes fully or partially blocked during sleep, preventing normal breathing for periods of ten seconds or more. These episodes can occur dozens of times throughout the night. The body eventually forces itself awake to restore airflow, often with a loud snort or choking sound. 

If left untreated, OSA can lead to a range of health concerns. It has been linked to:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Strokes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Increased daytime sleepiness

It can also place significant strain on relationships, as sleep disruption affects both the person with OSA and their partner.

How can snoring be treated?

There are various ways to manage snoring, with treatment options depending on the severity and cause. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is considered the gold standard for treating OSA, as it keeps the airway open using a steady stream of air.

However, many people find CPAP uncomfortable or difficult to use long-term, leading to lower compliance rates.

An alternative solution is a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS), a custom-made device (also known as a snoring mouthguard) that gently moves the lower jaw forward during sleep, which helps keep the airway open. 

This can reduce snoring and improve breathing for those with mild to moderate OSA.

The Sleepwell: A comfortable solution

The Sleepwell is the most clinically proven MAS for treating snoring and mild to moderate OSA. 

Custom-made for each person, the Sleepwell gently advances the lower jaw to keep the airway open and reduce the soft tissue vibrations that cause snoring.

It's widely regarded as the most patient-friendly MAS on the market, offering exceptional comfort and ease of use. In fact, during clinical trials, 98% of patients found the Sleepwell to be an acceptable and comfortable treatment option.

Unlike CPAP, the Sleepwell is discreet, quiet, and much easier to wear, making it a highly effective alternative for those looking for a more convenient and comfortable solution to their snoring or sleep apnoea.

Hear from someone who experienced the life-changing impact of the Sleepwell:

Don't ignore your snoring

Ignoring snoring can lead to disrupted sleep, increased stress, and long-term health issues.

If you or your partner are struggling with snoring, it’s important to address it before it affects your well-being.

Find your nearest Sleepwell dentist today and take the first step toward better sleep and improved health.