Simple trick to curb snoring and enhance quality of life may improve sleep health

Snoring is caused by obstructed airflow in the throat, which significantly narrows during sleep. As we breathe through this visualisation, the back of the throat falls and comes into contact with the base of the tongue. This causes the air to vibrate the walls of the upper respiratory tract, giving rise to the distinct sound and sensation of snoring.

Despite how common it is, snoring should not be overlooked or trivialized. It may signal a more serious underlying health issue. For example, it can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, which increases the risk of heart disease.

One of the most effective and least invasive ways to curb snoring is to adjust sleeping habits. Of course, if initial steps aren't successful, then it may be necessary to seek professional guidance from a health care professional.

We can significantly minimize, if not completely eliminate, snoring by giving up certain habits like alcohol and cigarettes - both of which can exacerbate the condition. Prioritizing sleep hygiene and getting an average of eight hours of sleep each night is key. It's also essential to maintain open nasal passages.

While altering sleeping positions can be challenging – especially as we tend to shift during sleep – there's a handy trick that can assist. As suggested by Sudhansu Chokroverty, the director of the Clinical Neurophysiology and Sleep Medicine program at JFK Medical Center, you can prevent unwanted positional changes by attaching a tennis ball or similar object to the back of your pajamas. This makes it uncomfortable to sleep on your back, prompting you to remain on your side. The ball should be situated in the middle of your back for optimal effect.