It might sound like something out of a horror movie, but snoring can actually be a sign of an increased risk of cancer. Indeed, a recent study conducted by the University of Alberta found that people who snore loudly are more likely to develop head and neck cancers.
What are the causes of snoring?
Many of us have experienced the frustration of sharing a bed with a snoring partner. But what exactly is snoring, and why do we do it? Snoring occurs when airflow through the nose and throat is obstructed. It is often more severe when people sleep on their backs because this position allows gravity to pull the tongue and soft palate back. Several factors can hide behind snoring. Notably :
Adenoid hypertrophy:
The adenoids are a small mass of lymphatic tissue located at the back of the nose. They help filter bacteria and other particles from the air we breathe. When they get bigger, they can block the airways and lead to snoring. In some cases, enlarged adenoids can also lead to sleep apnea, which is an interruption of breathing during sleep. Treatment for enlarged adenoids usually involves surgical removal.
Obstruction of the nasal passages:
This can be due to various factors, such as allergies, deviated nasal septum or enlarged adenoids. When the airways are blocked, the person is forced to breathe through the mouth rather than the nose. This can cause the soft palate to vibrate, hence the characteristic sound of snoring. In some cases, just like enlarged adenoids, nasal obstruction can also lead to sleep apnea, a serious condition that requires medical treatment.
Sleep apnea:
A new study has found that sleep apnea may be a cause of snoring. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri, looked at a group of people with sleep apnea and found they were more likely to snore than others. The study’s lead author, Dr Brian Kent, said the findings might have implications for the treatment of sleep apnea. “If we can treat sleep apnea and reduce snoring, we can improve the quality of sleep for people with this condition.” Did he declare. The results of the study will be published in the journal Sleep Medicine.
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. In some cases, air may even be forced out of the lungs, causing a loud, harsh noise. This is the most serious condition that should not be overlooked. If not treated properly, it can lead to cancer.
What is the established link between snoring and the risk of head and neck cancer?
Although the link between loud snoring and cancer is not fully understood, researchers at the University of Alberta believe it is related to how loud snoring disrupts airflow in the lungs. This can cause inflammation of the airways, which can lead to the development of cancerous cells.
Also, snoring often leads to lack of sleep. This can further weaken the immune system and make the body more vulnerable to cancer. Although more research is needed to confirm the link between snoring and cancer, it’s clear that snoring isn’t just regarding inconvenience.
How to cure it ?
The good news is that there are always simple and natural ways to reduce or even eliminate snoring. For example, sleeping on your side instead of on your back can help clear the airways and prevent snoring.
Additionally, there are also a number of lifestyle changes that can help reduce snoring. If you are a smoker, quitting smoking can make a big difference. Alcohol and sedatives can also relax throat muscles and contribute to snoring. Also, avoiding them before bed can be helpful. Losing weight can also be of great importance if you are overweight, as excess weight around the neck can narrow the airways and lead to snoring. Try following one of these ways and see if they make a difference.
If you are a habitual snorer, it is important to seek medical attention for a check-up. They can recommend treatments that will help reduce your risk of developing cancer.
