Snoring is a problem that can not only ruin your sleep, but it can cause all kinds of problems, from exhaustion to high blood pressure and difficulty concentrating during the day.
It can also obviously put strain on the relationship you have with the person you share a bed with.
But what is it that really causes snoring?
And, most importantly, can they be avoided?
"Snoring occurs when the muscles in the throat, used for speaking and swallowing, relax during sleep," explains Richard K. Bogan, associate clinical professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and president of the National Sleep Foundation.
'Relaxing these throat muscles collapses the airways to about 40% of its normal size during sleep.
In adults, the throat can relax so much that it collapses completely and vibrates, creating snoring.
Snoring is influenced by age, weight, anatomy, nasal congestion and even some medications or the fact of drinking alcohol.
However, while there may be medical issues that need to be addressed, there are products that can help prevent snoring completely in the short term.
If you're sick of your partner nudging you for sleep, we've rounded up the top rated snoring products on Amazon that can help.
The best mouthpieces for snoring
Can mouthpieces, which position the mouth and jaw, help keep the airway open?
It depends, says Dr. Jay Khorsandi of Snore Experts.
"People with really small or very large mouths will have a harder time adjusting as these devices are one size fits all," he says.
"If you tend to be in the average size range, they can definitely be helpful."
Pro Tech Dental Tranquility Pro 2 Adjustable Sleeping Mouthguard ($ 32.35, originally $ 35.94;
amazon.com
)
Affordable, but not for small mouths, this mouth guard protects against teeth grinding and, according to buyers, works wonders for snoring.
Write one: «This product made me realize that my snoring was caused by my lower jaw moving towards my throat while sleeping on my back, causing my airways to constrict and cause snoring.
After using this mouthpiece the snoring is gone, and I am not awakened by the stuffed animals thrown at my head for keeping my wife and young daughter awake.
That's good!"
Zyppah Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece ($ 99.95, originally $ 125.95;
amazon.com
)
This is Khorsandi's choice for a mouth guard as it actually works by controlling the tongue and opening the airway for a snoring free night.
The best snoring strips
A simple solution for many snoring is snoring strips, which are adhesive strips that work to keep the nose and airways open, reducing snoring.
Breather Right Clear Nasal Strips ($ 11.99, originally $ 12.99;
amazon.com
)
With over 900 5-star reviews, it's clear that these strips are a shopper's favorite.
Simply place one just above your nostrils and it will open your nose to relieve both snoring and nighttime congestion due to allergies or a cold.
They are also good for sensitive skin.
Theravent Snoring Therapy Strips ($ 16.25, originally $ 20.99;
amazon.com
)
These strips are actually placed under your nose, which may take some getting used to.
However, the reviewers claim that after a period of adjustment, they
really
work.
One buyer writes: “I have tried many snoring products, including sleeping in a different bedroom than my husband's, and these have FINALLY fixed it.
As many have said, it takes a few nights (no more than three) to get used to, but once you do, they work great!
My husband is finally able to sleep well and so am I because I don't wake up from snoring.
It really is the best dream we've both had in years. "
Breathe Right Nasal Strips to Stop Snoring, Lavender ($ 13.39;
amazon.com
)
Add some relaxation to your anti-snoring routine with these lavender-scented snoring strips, which can also help you fall asleep.
The best pillows to prevent snoring
A way to combat snoring?
"Avoid sleeping on your back," says Khorsandi.
"Sleeping on your side can help many people reduce snoring."
One way to help is a pillow that positions you correctly.
Uttu pillow ($ 39.97, originally $ 59.99;
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)
This pillow lifts the head and keeps it in place, preventing the neck and airways from relaxing.
WoodyKnows Side Sleeping Backpack Pillow ($ 55.99;
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)
Not used to sleeping on your side?
This inflatable backpack pillow can break that habit, according to our experts, and get you to sleep without snoring.
Coop Home Goods Eden Adjustable Pillow ($ 69.99;
amazon.com
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This adjustable pillow comes with additional padding that will allow you to find the perfect level of loft without snoring.
Abco Tech Wedge Pillow with Memory Foam Top ($ 29.97;
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)
This wedge pillow features a seven-inch high profile, keeping your neck properly positioned for a snoring-free night.
Best chin strap for snoring
“The theory with chin straps is that they are supposed to keep your mouth shut.
The correct way to sleep is to breathe through your nose at 100%, "says Khorsandi, who added that they can be" uncomfortable to sleep and can move a little. "
Snoring Solution Chin Strap ($ 15.99;
amazon.com
)
This strap promises to keep your mouth closed comfortably.
Sleep Legends Premium Anti-Snoring ($ 12.95;
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)
Another chin strap that can help keep your mouth shut.
Fits various head sizes, with one user typing, "I am 5'4" with a small head and my husband is 6'5 "with a head the size of a watermelon.
Somehow this chin strap looks good on both of us, and whoever wears it wakes up well rested! "
Best Nasal Vents for Snoring
Your nostrils tend to narrow when you snore.
These vents keep the nostrils open, allowing unhindered air flow through the nose, eliminating snoring.
Set of 4 nose vents for easy breathing ($ 21.95;
amazon.com
)
Yes, the idea of wearing something in your nostrils all night is a bit daunting, but according to many buyers, these nasal vents really work.
As one writes: “I'll be honest, it can take the nose a few days, even a week, to 'acclimate' to these critters, but when it does, it has a noticeable and positive impact on sleep.
I used to snore quite loudly and regularly, but the nights I use these (three to four nights a week, I forget from time to time) I wake up feeling more rested.
Japsun Anti-Snoring Nose Grids ($ 12.97;
amazon.com
)
Users love the flexible, medical grade silicone these nasal vents are made of, and the various sizes available.
Writes one buyer: “I've been looking all over the internet for network style silicone nasal dilators.
I have bought several that were advertised as medical grade silicone, but the net ones were made of plastic, which were uncomfortable to use.
These are made from medical grade silicone!
They are very comfortable and really open your nostrils.
The best ear plugs
Sometimes the only way to escape a snoring spouse is to cover your ears.
Don't use a pillow;
try these ear plugs.
Flents earplugs, 50 pairs ($ 13.99;
amazon.com
)
Flents earplugs, 50 pairs
PHOTO: Amazon
With 50 pairs, you'll never run out of earplugs, which users say are great for blocking out snoring noise.
A client writes: “I am so impressed that this finally solved my difficulty in sleeping, due to my husband's snoring.
I've been married for over 20 years and my husband's snoring has gotten worse, to the point of packing my pillow and blanket in the wee hours of the morning to move into the guest room.
This product solved our problem in less than a week. "
Kuyax Sleeping Earplugs ($ 14.99, originally $ 19.99;
amazon.com
)
These reusable silicone moldable earplugs are ideal for anything from sleeping next to a snorer to swimming.
One thing to remember: It's important to see a doctor if snoring is becoming a problem, Khorsandi says.
"Human beings should not snore when they sleep," he says.
“However, an occasional snoring is not a big deal.
But if it has been happening constantly for years, it is time to see a specialist.
Note: The above prices reflect the price at the time of publication of the article.