Snoring is not uncommon during pregnancy. Researchers estimate that approximately 30% of all pregnant women snore to some degree during pregnancy. Some women snore occasionally and others snore every night. There are several causes of airway restriction that result in snoring.
Weight is one factor in snoring. Women who gain more than the recommended 25-35 pounds are at greater risk of snoring. The more weight a woman gains, the more likely that snoring will be a problem.
Another factor is airway restriction that results from asthma. Women with asthma are more likely to snore. Nasal congestion also contributes to the problem. Many pregnant women experience this side effect at some point in pregnancy.
There are some things you can do to reduce snoring and get a better night’s sleep. Some women find that wearing a nasal strip, such as Breathe Right is helpful for reducing snoring. This is especially effective if nasal congestion is causing the problem.
Sometimes a change in position can open the airway and reduce snoring. Lying on your side may help you breathe easier. Elevating your head may help. An extra pillow under your head will help keep your head elevated, which can help open the airway.
Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms of sleep apnea. People with sleep apnea experience periods of interrupted breathing during sleep. People with sleep apnea snore, stop snoring and breathing for a few seconds and then gasp for air. When normal breathing resumes, the snoring continues.
Treatment for sleep apnea is the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. A mask is worn during sleep. This machine increases pressure in the airway, which helps keep the airway open while you sleep. Your doctor is the best resource if you think this may be the problem.
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Managing Asthma During Pregnancy