Are You a Mouth Snorer or a Nasal Snorer?

Submitted by New Jersey Snoring Solutions on Wed 05/24/2023 - 09:00

Many are familiar with the loud, often harsh, sound that may accompany sleep, but are you curious why snoring sounds different sometimes? There is more than one type of snoring, and each has its own characteristics. While snoring is generally associated with sleep disorders and disrupted breathing, the type of snoring can indicate the cause. Here at New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions, Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein are ready to help you understand more about mouth snoring, nasal snoring, and their underlying conditions.

Mouth Snoring

Mouth-based snoring occurs when a person breathes through the mouth as opposed to the nose during sleep. When breathing regularly through the nose, air freely flows over the palate without blockage or disruption. Mouth snorers may have thick palates that narrow the airway and can lead to loud snoring. They may also be overweight, have low muscle tone, and have additional throat tissue that can further restrict the airway and contribute to mouth snoring.

Nasal Snoring

When you hear the term “nasal snoring” you may think that it describes snoring through the nose. Rather, the term is used to categorize snoring that results from issues within the nasal structure. Nasal snoring can be the result of a few things, including:

Nasal blockage: This can be a result of a cold or flu, deviated septum, smoking, allergies, and certain medications. Conditions that affect nasal passages, such as congestion and inflammation, may also be culprits for this type of snoring.

Small Nostrils: Small nostrils, and even collapsed nostrils, can lead to disrupted breathing while sleeping.

Am I a mouth snorer or nasal snorer?

If you suspect that you are snoring but are not sure if you are a mouth snorer or a nasal snorer, there is a quick and easy way to check this for yourself. In front of a mirror, press one finger over one nostril to close it off. If your open nostril caves in as you breathe through it, you may be a nose snorer. Additionally, you may be a nose snorer if you have difficulty breathing through your nose with a closed mouth in general. Although there are quick tests that you can perform to see what type of snorer you are, the advice of experts is indispensable. The only way to get details about snoring, rule out other conditions, and gain a better understanding of your nighttime breathing health is to consult with skilled doctors, such as Dr. Ivan Stein or Dr. Allan Stein.

Snoring Solutions in New Jersey

The experts at New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions are eager to help you. If you are ready to seek help for your snoring, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ivan Stein or Dr. Allan Stein by calling (855) 949-7667 today.