Have you ever snored so bad that it woke you up? Has your partner or family member told you that you snored so loud that it could wake the dead? 

You are not alone if you have a snoring problem. Millions of people suffer from chronic snoring for various reasons. If you were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or OSA, you may have been told that wearing a CPAP mask would help - and that stands true as long as your mask is properly fitted, and comfortable.

People take CPAP therapies without acknowledging the major aspects of the treatment- the mask and air pressure. These should be fitted and given properly to help you breathe, and sleep well.

Before we explore the importance of masks and air pressure, let’s explore the term ‘SNORING’.

What Is Snoring?

Snoring affects everyone at some point- it can be due to a stuffy nose, or to other factors like the structure of the mouth and nose.

Some people have a low, thick soft palate, which makes them prone to airway obstruction or blockages. These obstructions lead to snoring. When you sleep, the muscles in your throat and mouth relax and sag, making smaller palates prone to natural blockages.

If you've never had your tonsils or adenoids removed, they could be blocking your airway. If you've had them removed but still have trouble breathing, it could be due to the tongue that relaxes and sags back in your throat during sleep. That's a real possibility, especially if you sleep on your back.

If the uvula, or the soft tissue in the back of your throat, is enlarged or elongated (due to an infection or virus), it can also cause airway blockages.

Can CPAP Therapy Help In Snoring?

Yes, your CPAP can stop snoring - but only when enough air pressure is given to clear your airways. The anatomical blockages can be complex. A CPAP machine, when used correctly can ease the snores.

If the snore sustains despite proper use, check your mask fitting. It is possible that your mask or pressure settings are not being used correctly or are insufficient to fully resolve your airway blockages.

Sometimes the air pressure settings are not high enough to treat the obstructions. It is also possible that your mask or hose has air gaps that don’t allow air pressure to escape. This can cause low pressure delivery.

It can also be due to your sleeping position. Avoid touching the hose often or compromising the mask's fit over your face.

Some people breathe through their mouths. If your sleeping habits do not comply with the mask, it can also lead to obstructions and snoring. Many people prefer a partial face mask, also known as a nasal pillow. This pillow covers less face while sleeping.

Therefore, it is important to consider two things for CPAP therapy- air pressure setting and a sleeping mask.

You can always reach your doctor to understand the proper CPAP pressure settings.

Sehaaonline has recently launched different nasal masks for each concern. These products can help you get a good night's sleep without snoring! Let’s explore-

1. Sleepnet Veraseal 2 Full Face Vented Mask with Headgear

The Veraseal 2 disposable full mask comes with AIR gel technology that enhances patient comfort. It has both vented and non-vented ports. You can use the mask for CPAP, Bilevel, and ventilator therapy.

The product is available in 4 sizes- Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large to suit the fit according to your face. The lightweight frame provides breathable headgear for a comfortable sleep.

2. Sleepnet Ascend Full Face Mask with Replaceable Cushion and Headgear

If you are looking for high-level comfort, this Ascend Full Face Mask with Replaceable Cushion and Headgear is for you! The product has a patented AIR gel mask with removable cushions.

It is specially designed for active sleepers who may displace the mask. The product’s active headgear and connector make minimum leaks. The mask is available in three sizes- Small, Medium, and Large.

3. Sleepnet iQ2 Nasal Mask

A versatile product designed to accommodate most facial structures is light in weight with a moldable mask feature. It has AIR gel technology to maximize comfort and minimize skin irritation. The products seal the face with minimal tension and better fit.

The Sleepnet iQ2 Nasal Mask comes with replaceable cushions and magnetic chips (for easy wear). It also features 360 Swivel technology for active sleepers. The product is available in one size that can mostly fit all facial structures.

4. Sleepnet Ascend Nasal Mask with Replaceable Cushion and Headgear

The Sleepnet Ascend Nasal Mask comes with advanced cushion technology with an active headgear connector. It provides superior stability and seals while sleeping. This is one of the most comfortable and convenient headgears in the market with a unique touchless design.

It has AIR gel patented technology to cope with skin irritation and pressure point issues. The mask is available in three sizes- Small, Medium, and Large.

Are There Other Ways To Stop Snoring?

Apart from the above-mentioned solutions, there are some other aspects to look into to stop snoring-

When dealing with an OSA diagnosis, it's important to consider your lifestyle. Some behaviors can worsen symptoms, for example, weight gain. It is important to stay healthy and manage weight if you have OSA. An extra tissue due to weight gain can worsen the disorder.

1. According to medicine, there is a link between OSA and Obesity- As you gain weight, your muscle tone declines, causing your muscles to sag more during sleep. Therefore, sleep apnea can develop due to weight gain. You’re recommended to lose weight to reduce the severity as well as prevent OSA.

2. Alcohol consumption is another common cause of OSA- This is not to say that drinking a glass of wine with dinner will cause (or solve) your sleep apnea problems. However, more research indicates that late-night drinking interferes with sleep by disrupting your sleep patterns. This can lead to loud snoring. Not to mention that alcohol is a relaxing agent that causes deep muscle relaxation, which can sag muscles during sleep.

Conclusion

Snoring is a medical problem that can be resolved if treated properly. But it's important to consult a medical professional. Only after a medically approved sleep study, one can use equipment like CPAP & BiPAP machines.

If you want to make some changes to your therapy, always consult your doctor. Remember that, when used correctly, a CPAP can stop snoring. So check your machine's air pressure settings to ensure you're getting good, snore-free sleep.