Products Sold to Stop Snoring
For those who snore and those who have to live with it must understand there is more than one kind of snoring. It all depends on what is the root cause of the snoring. It is possible to snore very loudly without having the problem of sleep apnea. This is known as primary snoring. Apnea means the cessation of breath. The snorer who also has apnea will actually stop breathing for a few seconds. Primary snoring does not have to be associated with sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the result of air ways being very blocked. This condition is considered as life threatening and must be treated by a medical professional. There are also sleep centers that treat this condition. You can have this severe form of sleep apnea without any snoring taking place.
Snoring is such a widespread problem that products promising cures are continually coming onto the market. To be completely honest there is not a single product that can cure snoring. However, there are products that can lessen snoring. This will provide some respite so that the snorer and his or her partner can get some quality sleep.
CPAP
One such product is the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Appliance). It is in effect a facial mask linked to a pump. The pump submits pressure via the facial mask. The aim is to keep the throat from collapsing. This is the device that is usually chosen by medical practitioners to treat obstructive sleep apnea because it does work. Patients do find the facial mask and pump uncomfortable and stop using it within a year. The CPAP costs anything from $1 000 to $3 000.
Stop Snoring Sprays
A nasal spray could prove to be effective for those who have a blockage in the nasal passages caused by swelling or mucus. It must be noted that sprays touted as ‘moistening air ways’ or softening tissues’ are less effective than other anti snore products. The condition of snoring does not entail a dry throat or tough tissue. Using nasal sprays over a long time period can become addictive. It can also damage mucous membranes and negatively affect arrhythmias. Nasal septum can be the result of long term use of stop snoring nasal sprays. These products are priced from $5 to $30.
Nasal Valve Dilators
This product is effective in the case of primary snoring due to a blocked nose. The cheapest nasal valve dilator is in the form of strips stuck over the bridge of your nose as you sleep. The strips could come loose and once used they can’t be used again. There is a possibility it could cause reaction on the skin. Strips cost around 80 cents a strip.
A different kind of nasal valve dilator is made of plastic that is flexible. The endings are placed inside the nostrils. It must be said it’s uncomfortable and replacement is necessary a few times each year. This products costs around $20 each.
Stop Snoring Pillows
These pillows are specifically designed and shaped to make the snorer sleep on his or her side. It is achieved with specialty foam and it costs from $23 to $70.
Dental Appliances
There are a number of dental appliances but not all work. The least recommended is the tongue retainer. This kind has a tongue retaining flange that hinders swallowing when sleeping. It is possible for the flange to be responsible for blocking the lesser upper air ways. If you have OSA do not use this product.
Mandibular Advancement Appliance
There is more than one of these appliances to choose from. These can be purchased across the counter or bespoke from a dentist. Bespoke or custom made appliances do cost more but they are the most comfortable, durable and adjustable. Across the counter they cost $50 and custom made can go up to $2 000.
Adjustable Beds
It must be said that adjustable beds are not widely advertised as appliances to stop snoring. There is a very good chance this kind of bed can provide a snorer and his or her partner with a good night’s rest. There is proof that sleeping at 30 degrees lessens pressure on the diaphragm. This assists in maintaining open air ways. If the head is also kept up it will be even more effective. The tongue will not fall down on the uvula. This product costs $800 to $1 000.
