Anti-Snoring Devices Explained
Snoring is a chronic condition that affects the lives of millions of Americans and people around the globe. Thanks to modern medicine and technological innovation, we enjoy access to a wide range of devices that can prevent snoring — including everything from swapping out pillows to choosing the best snore guards for sleep apnea.
But there remains mystery around many of these devices. How exactly do anti-snoring devices work? And which anti-snoring devices are ideal for you and your unique situation.
Here’s a look at various anti-snoring devices, as well as tips on selecting the right device to fit your needs.
1. Snoring Pillows
A snoring pillow focuses on putting your body into perfect alignment for snore-less sleeping. Some snoring pillows are adjustable, and some are more comfortable than others. Spend time reading reviews, and take advantage of warranty windows to test out different options.
If you can find a snoring pillow that does the trick, congratulations! You’ve found a relatively affordable, non-invasive solution for your snoring.
2. Snoring Mattresses
Much like snoring pillows, snoring mattresses are designed to put the body in a perfect position for sleeping without snoring. Again, this isn’t a solution that will work for every snorer, but it’s one that is relatively non-invasive — though it’s far more expensive than a snoring pillow.
You enjoy a wide range of options when shopping for a snoring mattress. The best part is this: These snoring mattress options are available with a trial period. So, if you want to test out a snoring mattress without risk, take advantage of the trial period. If it’s not doing the job for you, simply send it back.
3. Nasal Strips
Not every snorer is dealing with nasal passageway issues. So, if you’re snoring because of air constriction in the mouth or throat, nasal strips aren’t likely to do much good.
That said, nasal strips represent the smallest investment you can make in an anti-snoring device. If you’re unsure why you’re snoring, there’s little risk in buying a few nasal strips and testing them out to see if they deliver the solution you need.
4. Snoring Mouthpieces
Snoring mouthpieces are perhaps the most mysterious of all anti-snoring devices. They sound strange, and they look a little funny — but they are among the most effective solutions on the market.
Snoring mouthpieces generally do one of several things. They may hold the tongue in place so that it doesn’t fall back and constrict airflow. They may also hold the jaw in place so that it doesn’t constrict airflow. And, in some cases, snoring mouthpieces move the jaw slightly forward to promote better airflow.
There’s a whole world or snoring mouthpiece options to explore. But, if airflow in your throat or mouth is the issue, finding the right snoring mouthpiece should deliver the solution.
5. Sinus/Allergy Medications
You may not think of sinus and allergy medication as “devices,” but they may just represent your snoring solution. When allergies kick in, airflow gets constricted in the nasal passageway, which can lead to snoring. If this is why your snoring in the first place, finding an effective sinus or allergy medication might just fix your problem.
How to Identify the Ideal Solution
Second, if you have health insurance that covers it, consider consulting your physician about anti-snoring solutions. Your doctor should be able to provide expert advice, as well as a referral to a doctor who specializes in sleep.
No matter what you choose, remember that the solutions are out there. Test out a few different anti-snoring devices, and be patient. Once you find the right solution for you, the improvement in your quality of sleep and life will be worth the wait.
