Snoring is caused by tissues in the airway vibrating as a sleeper breathes. Although snoring affects people of any sex or gender, several unique factors contribute to snoring in women and people assigned female at birth. Here are some of the causes of snoring in females:
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Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause snoring. The weight gain that often accompanies pregnancy can also contribute to snoring.
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Menopause: Snoring increases during and after menopause. This could be due to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone, hormones that may be protective against snoring. After menopause, women also commonly gain weight, increasing their risk of obesity and breathing changes during sleep.
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Oral and Sinus Anatomy: Snoring can be caused by the anatomy of the mouth and sinuses.
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Weight: Weight gain is one of the most common reasons for loud snoring in women.
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Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol before bed can relax the muscles in the throat and cause snoring.
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Allergies and Cold: Allergies and a cold can cause nasal congestion, which can lead to snoring.
To reduce or prevent snoring, it is important to identify the underlying cause. Some lifestyle changes that may help include losing weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, and sleeping on your side. If snoring is accompanied by other symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness or gasping for breath during sleep, it may be a sign of a more serious condition such as obstructive sleep apnea, and it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation.
