February 12, 2007
 
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) is sending out a reminder that snoring may lead to the demise of your relationship—and your Valentine might be best served by some preventive measures.

Studies show that snoring can have a profound impact on relationships—removing intimacy, disrupting sex lives, and, in some cases, leading to divorce among married couples.

Among adults, 45% snore at least occasionally and 25% are habitual snorers. Problem snoring is more frequent in males and overweight persons, and it usually grows worse with age.

While there are more than 300 devices registered in the US Patent and Trademark Office as cures for snoring, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent snoring from wreaking havoc in your relationship.

Adults who suffer from mild or occasional snoring should consider trying the following:

• Adopt a healthy and athletic lifestyle to develop good muscle tone and lose weight.
• Avoid tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and antihistamines before bedtime.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 4 hours and heavy meals or snacks for 3 hours before going to sleep.
• Establish a regular sleeping pattern.
• Sleep on your side rather than your back.
• Tilt the head of your bed upwards 4 inches.

More information about the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery can be found at www.entnet.org.