If you’ve ever spent a night next to a snoring man, you probably already know the answer: Yes! Studies show that between 30-60% of adults snore occasionally or regularly, and men are twice as likely to be affected as women.
But why is that the case? Science has some answers—and some solutions.
Men’s Anatomy Plays a Role
One major reason men snore more than women is their physical structure. Men tend to have more fat deposits around the chest and neck, which can put pressure on the airway when lying down.
This makes it more difficult for air to pass through, increasing the chances of snoring.
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Weight Matters
Obesity is another key factor in snoring, and statistically, more men are overweight than women.
Extra fat around the throat and mouth can narrow the airway, making it harder to breathe normally at night. This is why losing weight often helps reduce snoring.
Age Doesn’t Help
Both men and women snore more as they age, but the issue is particularly pronounced in men.
Over time, muscles—including those in the throat—lose their firmness, causing the airway to collapse more easily during sleep. This leads to louder and more frequent snoring.
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Sleep Apnea Is More Common in Men
Men are also more likely to suffer from obstructive sleep apnea—a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep.
This happens when the airway becomes blocked for seconds at a time, often due to excess tissue in the throat. It can be dangerous if left untreated and often requires medical intervention.
Alcohol and Relaxants Make It Worse
Drinking alcohol before bed can worsen snoring by relaxing the muscles in the throat, making them more likely to collapse during sleep. The same goes for sedatives and sleeping pills, which can make snoring even louder and more persistent.
Nasal Issues Contribute to the Problem
Men with nasal congestion, allergies, or a deviated septum may snore more because their airways are partially blocked. This forces them to breathe through their mouth, which increases snoring volume and frequency.
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Lying on the Back Makes It Worse
Sleeping on the back allows the tongue and soft tissues of the throat to fall backward, partially blocking the airway. This position is much more likely to cause snoring compared to sleeping on the side.
Snoring Can Harm Relationships
Beyond the health risks, snoring can be a serious problem in relationships. Many partners of snorers report disturbed sleep, leading to frustration, separate sleeping arrangements, and even resentment. Addressing the issue is important for both health and harmony.
When to Seek Medical Help
If snoring is accompanied by choking sounds, gasping for air, excessive daytime fatigue, or morning headaches, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. In this case, seeing an ear, nose, and throat specialist or a sleep doctor is crucial.
Ways to Reduce Snoring
Simple changes like sleeping on your side, losing weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, using a humidifier, or getting a custom-fitted snoring mouthpiece can help. In more severe cases, medical treatments or CPAP therapy may be necessary.
Also read: What Your Heart Rate Says About Your Health
This article is based on information from Iform.
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