Snoring noise and sleep disturbance – is it a threat to our health?

The sound of snoring is irritating and annoying and can lead to sleep deprivation for yourself and your partner. But did you know the noise of snoring can also cause a number of health problems.

We all know how it feels if we have not had a good night’s sleep – we feel tired and sleepy all day, bad tempered, lacking concentration, and generally irritable. Partners and family who are disturbed every night by snoring can often experience these symptoms every day.

The noise level that starts to have an effect on sleep is around 40dB. The noise of snoring can range from about 50dB to 100+dB, and research has consistently found that when exposed to noise at these levels, it can have a negative effect on all areas of our wellbeing.

Evidence has shown that the louder the noise, the worse the sleep. The quality of the noise is also an issue. Some noises can be subjectively annoying whilst others of the same level are not.

 

 

The effects of snoring and sleep deprivation on your health

Noise at night can become a major problem, and many people consider that a good night’s sleep is a basic human entitlement essential for maintaining good health. Indeed, sleep is so important that the World Health Organisation (WHO) document several categories of adverse health and social effects from noise.

Sleep disturbance, hearing impairment, daytime functioning, mental health problems, cognitive issues and negative social behaviour can be symptoms of being subjected to loud noise over a period of time. Sleep deprivation can also have a negative impact on body systems such as hormonal release, glucose regulation and cardiovascular function, leading to overall poor health.

Other potential serious health and life style issues are:

  • Increased blood pressure/hypertension
  • Increased risk of diabetes
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Poor relationships with partner

 

So how can these issues be resolved?

The snorer must acknowledge the problem and take steps to resolve it. Snoring will not go away – it will only get worse if not addressed. 

Self-help remedies – see The British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association  for help & information.

If you cannot resolve the snoring by self-help remedies seek professional help to find the cause and appropriate treatment.  Speck with your Dentist with regards to our product a mandibular splint called a Sleepwell, this splint may be suitable for you, your Dentist will be able to advise you.

Heres wishing you all a Snore zzz! free and peaceful nights sleep ......From the Team at Ernevale House Dentistry