Most people snore at some point in their lives, usually when dealing with seasonal allergies or battling a cold. Occasional snoring does not pose a serious risk to your health, but when the problem is persistent, it might be time to take a closer look at what is causing the condition. There are a number of factors that can lead to snoring, but one of the most common is sleeping on the wrong type of mattress.
Snoring happens when the fatty tissues or soft muscles in the mouth relax, causing them to collapse and block the airway. Those muscles are used throughout the day, but not as much while sleeping. The vibrating sound that can be heard while someone is snoring is air attempting to get past those muscles.
Harvard Health reports that roughly 90 million Americans snore, which is a form of sleep-disordered breathing. Even if a person’s snoring is not associated with sleep apnea, it can make getting a restful night’s sleep almost impossible for anyone in the room.
Snoring is often linked to other health issues and diseases. In fact, addressing one issue can often lead to improvement with another. Some common snoring causes and risk factors include:
One of the most common causes of snoring is sleep position. People who sleep on their backs are more likely to snore than those who sleep on their side or stomach. When the head is elevated, it helps open up the airways while sleeping and reduces the chances of snoring. People who sleep on their backs are less likely to have their heads elevated enough for this to happen.
Another link between mattresses and snoring is the age of the mattress. This is for two reasons. First, an older mattress is likely to have lumps and be unsupportive, forcing an uncomfortable sleeping position resulting in snoring. Second, older mattresses (more than 7 years old) are more likely to house dust mites, which can lead to allergies and an irritated airway.
Side sleepers will tend to snore less or toss and turn all night than those who sleep on their backs. So, how do you find the right mattress that will have a positive impact on your snoring? Here are a few features to look for when mattress shopping:
Proper Support
Support and firmness are often mistaken for the same thing. They are actually quite different. A supportive mattress means that you can sleep on the mattress without sinking too low. If you snore, you want enough support so that does not happen.
Pressure Relief
When you lie on a mattress, the surface creates pressure points on your body. That pressure can lead to pain, as well as a restless night’s sleep.
Snorers need a mattress with plenty of pressure relief. Specifically, the mattress should have a comfort layer that is at least 3 inches thick. It should also have a supportive base layer.
Correct Firmness
The firmness you choose will depend on what type of sleeper you are. If you are a side sleeper, which is best for a snorer, you want a mattress that ranges from soft to medium firmness.
Adjustable Base
Having an adjustable base is an effective, though costly, option that will have an impact on your snoring. Previously only used in hospitals, these beds can incline to open your airways and even improve circulation. Newer models have been designed to be compatible for two sleepers by allowing each side of the mattress to be controlled separately.
Some of the best mattresses for snoring are memory foam mattresses because they provide cushion pressure points, absorb motion and sound, and do not sag. They also provide an even balance of softness and support.
As long as they have a durable support core, latex and hybrid mattresses are also acceptable options for snorers. Innerspring mattresses are not a good choice for chronic snorers because they offer little pressure relief and are prone to sagging.
In addition to your mattress, your sleeping position can play a role in snoring. One study revealed that elevating your head while sleeping can reduce snoring. Some people also use a nasal device, which may or may not be uncomfortable while sleeping.
When you find a high-quality mattress, it should last around seven years or a bit longer. Make sure you combine it with a medium to high-loft pillow that will elevate your head enough to keep your airways open while sleeping.
An anti-snore wristband, such as Sleep Connection, is another popular option that is both comfortable and effective. Sleep Connection is a scientifically-designed biosensor that distinguishes and detects loud sounds. It then sends smooth pulses to the body to stop snoring without disturbing sleep. In combination with your new mattress, you or your loved one may never snore again and will be sure to wake up feeling renewed.
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