With Valentine’s Day (February 14) right around the corner, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) would like to remind you 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.

Forty-five percent of adults snore at least occasionally, and 25 percent 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 U.S. 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 four hours and heavy meals or snacks for three hours before retiring.
• Establish regular sleeping patterns.
• Sleep on your side rather than your back.
• Tilt the head of your bed upwards four inches.

Sometimes snoring can indicate a more serious medical problem, such as obstructive sleep apnea. If you have concerns, you should make an appointment to see an otolaryngologist, more commonly referred to as an ear, nose, and throat physician.

About the AAO-HNSF:
The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (http://www.entnet.org), one of the oldest medical associations in the nation, represents more than 12,000 physicians and allied health professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The Academy serves its members by facilitating the advancement of the science and art of medicine related to otolaryngology and by representing the specialty in governmental and socioeconomic issues. The organization’s mission is: “Working for the Best Ear, Nose, and Throat Care.”

Source: American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (AAOHNS)