eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Reduce Snoring Naturally and Safely

Member
By Willow Sidhe
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)

Snoring occurs when the tongue, upper throat, uvula and soft palette vibrate against the adenoids and tonsils. Numerous causes exist including congestion, allergies, tobacco use and obesity. Regardless of what's causing the problem, you can reduce snoring naturally using a few home remedies and tips. If you are unable to quit snoring on your own, contact a qualified medical practitioner, as this could be the sign of a more serious problem.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Extra pillows
  • Tennis ball
  • Peppermint mouthwash
  • Neck brace
  1. Step 1

    Place your body in the correct position. Use extra pillows to prop yourself up instead of lying flat. This will prevent the throat tissue from falling into the air passages, which can cause noisy snoring. Simply elevating your head slightly before going to sleep is one of the best things you can do to reduce snoring.

  2. Step 2

    Sew a small pouch on the back of your pajamas and place a tennis ball inside. This will prevent you from sleeping on your back, which is when snoring occurs. You can also try sleeping on your side to reduce snoring. Hug a pillow to keep you in the position if you're prone to rolling over at night.

  3. Step 3

    Use peppermint mouthwash to gargle just before bed. The peppermint will shrink the lining of the nose and throat, which in turn will reduce snoring. This snoring remedy is particularly effective if the problem is being caused by a cold or congestion.

  4. Step 4

    Wear a neck brace to hold your chin up while you sleep. Keeping your head straight will ensure your airway stays open instead of bending, and can often prevent snoring all together. Neck braces can typically be found at medical supply stores.

  5. Step 5

    Watch what you eat in the evening. Don't consume heavy food or alcohol for at least three hours before bed. Both of these substances can cause your throat muscles to relax more than normal, which can lead to snoring.

Tips & Warnings
  • Excess weight and smoking can also cause snoring problems. Reduce snoring by shedding a few pounds and cutting out tobacco.
  • Excessive and loud snoring can be a sign of a more dangerous condition known as sleep apnea. If you stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep, consult a physician as soon as possible.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health