Quit Smoking and Quit Snoring
Tuesday, March 31, 2009 14:45Smoking has a whole range of dangers associated with it. Heart disease, lung disease, strokes and cancer to name but a few. But did you know it can contribute to snoring?
The actual mechanism is not fully known but can be surmised. This is because cigarette smoke is known to affect the respiratory epithelium (lining) of the larynx and bronchi. This can cause a malfunction of the delicate cells and hairs that line these passages which, in turn, leads to symptoms.
Even passive smoking can have this effect. Stale smoke can last for up to 2 hours after exhaled and affect the non-smoker.
Smokers often cough and feel congested. This is not only due to tar deposits in the lungs and airways. The airways themselves produce mucus in all of us, and this can be altered in the presence of cigarette smoke.
If excessive mucus is produced in the airways, this can lead to irritation, thickening and swelling of the airways including the respiratory passages in and around the voice box. Sinus linings can also be affected which leads to congestion and a stuffy nose.
Cue snoring!
In reality, snoring is no laughing matter. It causes much distress and heartache, especially for families. And, yes, snoring can happen in anyone, not just smokers.
But smokers, those that are overweight and those that lead an unhealthy lifestyle, are most prone.
The great thing about some conditions is that they can be helped or reversed. therefore – stop smoking! Eliminating the source of cigarettes smoke, as well as making you more healthy overall, will help to reduce your snoring and that of those who cannot avoid passive smoke.
