Snorers come in all shapes, sizes, and varieties of human beings. And snoring may have as its cause a variety of medical conditions, as well as muscle tone, obesity, and airway obstructions. Women, men, and children can all suffer from snoring. When snoring occurs during pregnancy, however, there may be a cause for concern. Snoring during pregnancy is sometimes caused by a condition called ‘hypertension’. This potentially devastating condition can affect the health and even pose a threat of death for both mother and child. Hypertension can also cause developmental delays in the fetus.
Another serious problem faced by pregnant women who snore is pre-eclampsia, which can cause hypertension, limb swelling, and protein in the urine. Toxemia is another possible condition indicated by snoring, as is excessive daytime sleeping. All of these issues should be brought to a health care provider’s attention. During pregnancy there is a marked increase in the production of blood, as blood provides nourishment for the growing fetus.
The blood vessels throughout the woman’s body also increase in size. Problems can occur as the blood vessels of the nose and throat increase in size, prompting a bloating of the mucus membranes. Obstructions may result, making it more difficult for the woman to breathe, and causing a snoring condition. Researchers have discovered that snoring frequency increases during pregnancy. Perhaps a quarter of women will be snorers by the last three months of pregnancy. Those women who were previous snorers, will most likely notice the volume of their snoring increases markedly during pregnancy. Eleven percent of pregnant women experience excessive weight gain, which in itself will cause snoring. Women who already snored were found to experience more snoring, as well as severe swelling of the hands, feet, legs and face. Babies, too, can suffer from snoring moms. Some babies have low birth weights, and often the APGAR scores are seven or less if their mother snored.
Approximately seven percent of snorers have babies with reduced APGAR scores. However, many of the women in this particular study were also smokers, which can itself cause severely reduced birth weight. Snoring during pregnancy can be reduced or even eliminated. Avoiding caffeine can help, as caffeine narrows the airways and creates more snoring. Sleeping on her side with an extra pillow can help the expectant mother to breathe with an open airway. Nasal strips that stick to the outer nose can also reduce snoring for some people. The strips are non-invasive, and do not require a prescription to purchase. They are simple tools that may improve airway function. Upper respiratory issues and other breathing problems are enhanced during pregnancy. Weight gain brings increased pressure on the diaphragm, and that can lead to breathing restrictions.
But if you let your snoring act as a warning flag, you can discuss the problem with your healthcare provider. She can give you advice about your current needs, and outline potential problems for your fetus. Snoring is not just a silly habit. Treat is as a medical condition, and you will be less likely to risk complications for your new infant.