Stop Snoring Aids

There are surgical procedures that can stop snoring. Even so, the statistics point to a success rate of under 50%. In addition, along with the risks associated with any surgery, there can be considerable expense involved. This is especially true when you consider that this form of surgery is considered ‘elective cosmetic surgery’ by most health plans and little, if any, of the cost is covered.

Although you won’t find a cure for snoring, in the form of a product, there are available snoring aids and devices that can be used to provide relief from snoring for you and possibly a partner or family members that are also affected.

One of the more pricy items on the list is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Appliance (CPAP). This device is composed of a special sleep mask which is connected to a pump. The purpose of this is to apply constant pressure through the mask in order to keep air passageways open by not allowing the throat to collapse. It should be noted that this device is the first choice of most doctors when treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is a serious illness. However, even though it can be very effective when used on a continual basis, many patients find it uncomfortable and inconvenient, so they tend to stop using the device within a year.

Another pricy item, but less so than the CPAP, is an Adjustable Bed. You normally don’t see these advertised as snoring aids, but they may help a snorer and their partner sleep more peacefully. It’s been indicated that a person who sleeps at a 30-degree elevation can keep the airway open by relieving pressure on the diaphragm. It can also prevent the tongue from collapsing against the uvula, which is another cause of snoring.

Dental Appliances come in more than one type, however, only one type is considered both effective and safe for those looking to curtail snoring. Dental devices that are tongue retaining and those that feature a tongue-retaining flange can interfere with the user’s ability to swallow while sleeping. Those devices can also obstruct small upper airways and can even be dangerous for those with sleep apnea. The devices that are considered safe are Mandibular Advancement Appliances. The more effective, durable and comfortable variety is a custom-made device. However, these are more expensive.

Specially constructed Stop Snoring Pillows are usually made out of conforming foam and are designed to assist the snorer with sleeping on their side. Sleeping on your side will help keep passageways open, as opposed to allowing those passageways to partially collapse when you’re on your back.

These are just a few of the stop snoring aids that are available on the market. Other aids can include nasal strips, sprays and other items. One of them may be just right for you.