It is common and normal to experience increased snoring when unwell. Illness can lead to temporary alterations in breathing patterns, resulting in louder or more frequent snoring. This is typically a short-term response as your body deals with the illness.
How Illness Affects Snoring
Snoring occurs when the flow of air through the mouth or nose is partially blocked during sleep, causing vibrations in the airway tissues. Illness contributes to this obstruction, making snoring more pronounced. Nasal congestion, common with colds or allergies, causes nasal passages to swell and clog with mucus. This makes nasal breathing difficult, often forcing mouth breathing during sleep.
Mouth breathing alters airflow dynamics; air moves more quickly through the throat, increasing soft tissue vibration at the back of the throat and leading to louder, more frequent snoring. Respiratory infections cause inflammation in the nasal passages, throat, and lungs, leading to swelling that further narrows the airways. A dry throat, often experienced with congestion and dehydration during illness, can also make soft tissues sensitive and prone to irritation, contributing to inflammation and airway constriction. Throat muscles can also relax due to illness or certain medications, allowing tissues to collapse and obstruct the airway.
Common Sicknesses and Snoring
Common illnesses frequently lead to increased snoring due to their impact on the respiratory system. The common cold and flu are prime examples, as they cause significant nasal congestion and inflammation in the upper airways. This swelling and mucus buildup impede airflow, forcing mouth breathing and increasing tissue vibration, worsening snoring.
Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, also contributes to snoring by causing nasal blockages and pressure. Seasonal allergies can trigger inflammation and excess mucus, leading to chronic nasal congestion that obstructs normal breathing during sleep. Bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, while affecting lower airways, can still contribute to respiratory distress and increased mouth breathing, indirectly influencing snoring patterns.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While increased snoring during illness is often temporary, certain signs suggest a more serious issue or that the underlying illness requires medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if snoring persists and remains severe after recovery. This could indicate an underlying issue beyond temporary congestion.
If snoring is accompanied by gasping or choking sounds during sleep, or if a bed partner observes breathing pauses, these could be signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a more serious condition. Excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, a sore throat upon waking, or waking up unrested are also symptoms that warrant a medical evaluation. If the illness worsens, is prolonged, or has severe symptoms, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and care.