There is nothing more frustrating than drifting off to sleep only to be woken up 45 minutes later by the rumbling growl of a snoring partner. Not only does the sound of a snoring partner interrupt your sleep, but snoring is also disruptive to the general health of your partner.
Snoring may cause ongoing throat or sinus issues, emotional irritation, and fatigue, the latter to both partners. Thankfully, medical science is on the case and there has been a recent spate of anti-snoring technological advances to help you get a much-needed night of sleep.
Nasal Dilators have become the next thing in snoring prevention. These small disposable dilators do exactly that; stent and dilate the nostrils to allow for clearer breathing during sleep. Sleepers who know their snoring is brought on by nighttime nasal congestion, sinus issues and medical conditions such as a deviated septum respond well to nasal dilators. Other contributors to snoring, such as soft palate vibration, may not respond as well to snoring aids such as dilators.
Not all dilators are the same however and not all are made to the same exacting standards as the top dilators currently available. The following nasal dilators represent the top three in regard to value for money, comfort, and effectiveness.
Mute Snoring
The signature ‘U’ shaped Mute Snoring dilator has undergone extensive testing and results indicate significant benefits for snorers. Over 75% of surveyed respondents reported less snoring, less severe snoring and better overall sleep quality.
The Mute Snoring dilator comes in different sizes and it is important to select the correct size to ensure a good fit and to avoid the dilator slipping out at night. The ribbed paddles of the Mute Snoring dilator set it apart from its competitors by cushioning the nostril comfortably and lessening the chance of it moving out of place during the night.
Like all nasal dilators, for optimal results, it is recommended your Mute Snoring dilator is replaced after a given period for hygiene reasons and to ensure the shape of the dilator hasn’t altered through wear. Mute Snoring dilators are higher priced than the competition, however, they have a robust clinical trial to back up their effectiveness.
SleepRight’s Intra-Nasal Breathing Aid
SleepRight’s Intra-Nasal Breathing Aid’s flesh colored dilator looks quite different to most dilators and flexes so it's one size is suitable for all nose types. The SleepRight Breathing Aid was the inevitable next step for the company who have had a long and successful history of nasal strips to aid in nasal breathing during the night.
The Intra-Nasal Breathing Aid inserts into the nose and gently opens the nasal passages to provide freedom from nasal congestion and clear airways. Like the Mute Snoring dilator, the SleepRight Intra-Nasal Breathing Aid is recommended to be disposed of after a period. Packs of three can be purchased at a reasonable price on the internet or over-the-counter.
Although there have been limited clinical trials regarding the effectiveness of the SleepRight Breathing Aid initial reviews by users of the product look positive and promising.
SnoreCare Nose Vents
At first glance, the SnoreCare Nose Vents appear similar to most nasal dilators on the market, however, SnoreCare’s ribbed, hollow tunnels are as unique to the dilator market as SleepRight’s Intra-Nasal Breathing Aid. Snore Care’s Nose Vents are made of a medical grade silicon for easy insertion and a comfortable fit while remaining discreetly tucked inside the nostrils.
The claims by SnoreCare that their Nose Vents can reduce snoring by not only opening the nasal passage but also by limiting the vibration of the soft palate are what make these dilators truly interesting. These claims suggest their dilator system takes a two-pronged attack on snoring, indicating a better result of eliminating snoring and fewer interruptions to your all-important sleep stages.
Available in four sizes, the SnoreCare Nose Vents require correct sizing to feel the benefits of the product, however, their set of four Nose Vents dilators and free carry case can be purchased for a very reasonable price online.
It is important to understand the cause of your (or your partner’s) snoring to determine if it is due mostly to nasal congestion in which case a dilator may work wonders, or whether there is soft palate vibration involved.
Although we would do nearly anything for a peaceful night of quality sleep, do your research before buying any anti-snoring product. A product that is found in many CVS pharmacies across the United States is Theravent. Although not a nasal dilator, it has been shown to reduce snoring for some users that snore through their nose because it encourages mouth breathing instead.
Sleeping peacefully every night is important to your health, and the health of your loved ones. In fact, habitual snorers can be at risk of serious health problems, including sleep apnea.
Anti-snoring sprays have been on the market for some time and do work for some people to stop their habitual snoring. Some sprays may work better for you than others.
Also, as you will notice, some anti-snoring sprays are made from all-natural ingredients, while others are not. This may be something to consider when choosing the best one for you.
To help, here is a list of the best anti-snoring sprays on the market today:
SnoreStop Extinguisher Throat Spray
SnoreStop is a widely used brand in the anti-snoring market. Their Extinguisher Throat Spray has 120 sprays per 0.6 oz bottle. To use, you simply spray it into your mouth and onto the back of your throat.
This FDA approved anti-snore spray has only homeopathic ingredients and has been rated A+ by users, as it eliminates the effects and symptoms of snoring naturally. Since it has no harmful chemicals included, it has no side effects and is not habit forming.
Best yet, since it is widely used, it has published studies by Doctors worldwide and has a high rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Ayr Snore Relieving Throat Spray
Ayr anti-snoring spray is comprised of the best blend of essential oils, herbs, and other natural ingredients to prevent the frequency and loudness of snoring.
Best yet, the essential oils and herbs used in Ayr Snore Relieving Throat Spray also aid in sleep, allowing for a peaceful night’s rest for up to eight hours.
This brand has good reviews from users, as well.
ProfesSnore Anti-Snoring Spray
ProfesSnore Anti-Snoring Spray has only four natural ingredients: mineral oil, glycerin, eucalyptus oil and spearmint oil. It is drug-free and non-habit forming which makes it perfect for long-term use without the risk of dependency.
It has been clinically tested to be effective and safe to use. This spray works by preventing the vibrations in the throat that cause snoring.
To use, spray to the back of the throat. Don’t eat or drink after spraying. ProfesSnore Anti-Snoring Spray lasts about 4 – 5 hours.
Rhynil Mouth and Nose Spray
Rhynil is made from all-natural ingredients and herbs. It’s an effective, strongly formulated mouth and nose spray to stop the symptoms of snoring. Furthermore, it aids in keeping infectious conditions of the nasal passage at bay.
This anti-snoring spray also has anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that fight many other major and minor problems of the nasal passage and sinuses.
Breathe Right Snore Relief Cool Mint Throat Spray
Another popular brand is Breath Right, and they have an effective anti-snoring spray, as well as their nasal strips.
To use, you simply spray 3 times to the back of the throat about 30 minutes before heading to bed. After spraying, do not eat or drink for the best results.
Silence Anti-Snoring Spray
This anti-snoring spray is considered quite effective by its users. Silence is made of mint flavored, muco-adhesive foam. Also, it contains many other ingredients which are known to inhibit snoring.
To use, shake the can well and spray several times on the back of the throat. You can swallow which allows it to cover the entire throat.
Wellness Zinc Throat Spray or Herbal Throat Spray
Wellness has a Zinc Throat Spray along with an Herbal Throat Spray. Both have been proven to be effective in stopping the symptoms of snoring.
To use, spray it 2 – 3 times to the back of the throat. What makes this spray good is that it can be used throughout the day to soothe your throat and to make it a more effective anti-snoring agent. However, do not use it more than 3 times per day or not more than 26 sprays in a 24-hour period.
Final Thoughts
There you have it; the best anti-snoring sprays available on the market today.
However, it is important to remember that not all these sprays will work for everyone. Ask for the advice of your doctor to find the best anti-snoring spray or method for you.
And, anti-snoring sprays are not a cure for serious conditions, such as sleep apnea. Please remember to speak with your doctor or a sleep specialist for severe conditions.
It’s also great to realize that some bad habits can affect snoring and your sleep patterns. Eating before bed, being overweight and smoking are only a few of these habits. Changing your lifestyle for the better can lead to a better night’s sleep!
Essential oils are an increasingly popular way to treat many common ailments naturally.
From stress to insomnia, essential oils provide relief. And for those who suffer from snoring, there are several essential oils known to help.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are extracted from plants, containing the “essence” of the plant’s fragrance. This means they are devoid of any chemical additives, making them a safer choice for creating fragrances for freshening up an area, clothing, cleaning supplies, or treating physical ailments.
Can essential oils stop snoring?
Research suggests essential oils can help to treat snoring. The Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, in Shrewsbury England, conducted a study on the impact of essential oils on snorers. A whopping 82% of patients using essential oils had partners report a reduction in snoring.
How do I use essential oils?
There are several ways to use an essential oil:
Try the following essential oils to find a remedy that will help reduce your snoring.
Eucalyptus
Congestion is a primary cause of snoring. Eucalyptus is known to clear your air passage and decongest your nasal system, and it can be an excellent choice to help reduce or eliminate your snoring.
Other common uses for eucalyptus include helping clear a cold or providing a boost of energy. The best way to use this oil is to steam and inhale it. You’ll love the fresh, cool scent as well!
Marjoram
Marjoram is another essential oil that helps clear out your airway. A short session with a diffuser on, steaming it, or rubbing a mixture on your feet will help you get a good night’s rest.
Thyme
Thyme is known to be a great cure for snoring due to its ability to help relieve respiratory issues, promote immunity, and treat muscular and joint pain.
Pair thyme with a carrier oil and apply it to the soles of your feet before you go to sleep. Rubbing it on your big toes will also help as they’re known in reflexology to affect the neck area.
Spearmint
Spearmint helps clear the airway and promotes natural breathing. Either use the essential oil or add spearmint herb to a non-caffeinated tea for a relaxing beverage immediately before getting into bed.
Sage
Another herb that can also be added to food or drinks to help with snoring, sage is known to treat indigestion. Either add it to tea or a snack or purchase the essential oil and burn it in your diffuser right before you go to sleep. It’s known to reduce stress as well, so you might find an enhanced benefit while consuming sage.
Peppermint
Like spearmint and eucalyptus, the menthol attribute of peppermint helps to open the airway and promote natural breathing. Use the herb to add to tea or water or burn some essential oil in your diffuser. Peppermint can help an upset stomach too.
Lavender
Lavender is soothing and helps you sleep. Try steaming and inhaling, burning in a diffuser, or combining it with a carrier oil and putting it on your feet before bed. Spray a lavender solution on your pillow before dozing off for a night of sweet dreams!
Try This Anti-Snoring Essential Oil Recipe:
Mix three drops each of lavender, thyme, and cedar essential oil with seven drops of olive oil. Apply to the bottom of the feet or your chest before going to bed for a restful night’s sleep.
Snoring can be a serious problem, especially for the snorer’s sleeping partner. It can be difficult to know how to find a snoring aid that works. There is a bewildering variety of devices, but there will almost certainly be one that suits you.
We have assembled some information to help you make the right choice.
Do You Snore?
Snoring is common, especially as we grow older. However, even babies can snore. If you are over the age of 40, there is a 40% chance you know you snore. Your sleeping partner puts the figure at almost 60%.
Why Do You Snore?
There is more than one cause of snoring. Some people snore because their nose is blocked, some because the airway at the back of the throat narrows as your muscles relax in sleep. When the airway is partially blocked, the passage of air causes the tissues to vibrate – and you (or your partner) hear the vibrations commonly known as snoring.
The sound of snoring tends to be louder if you sleep on your back or with your mouth open.
The physical way your body is constructed also affects your propensity for snoring. Your uvula may be unusually long or your hard palate may be low and thick. Obese people tend to have less free space in the throat, and drinking alcohol allows your muscles to relax more deeply. Also, if your nose is blocked by allergies, polyps, a deviated septum or other abnormalities, you are likely to snore. If you have children, you may have noticed they snore when they have a heavy cold.
Does It Matter?
Yes – snoring matters!
Firstly, because your partner needs their sleep. Lack of sleep results in crotchety, bad-tempered people who find concentrating on their work and enjoying their home life difficult.
Secondly, snoring may be a sign you are suffering from sleep apnea. This is a serious condition which requires treatment.
What Can You Do?
It is important to have an idea as to why YOU snore. It is essential you eliminate sleep apnea before experimenting with different aids on your own.
Your first step should be to consult with your physician. Your doctor can suggest a cause and initiate treatment. He may refer you to a sleep specialist, and you may need to spend a night sleeping in the clinic, so the staff can find out exactly how you sleep, and whether you have sleep apnea.
Once you have your diagnosis from your doctor, it’s a case of finding the best sleeping aid to prevent you from snoring.
Your Partner
Your partner is likely to have tried earplugs, earphones, white noise, and music. Next will be leaving the marital bed for part of the night – then the whole night. According to statistics, snoring is the third most common cause of divorce after infidelity and financial problems.
Simple Things to Try
The Nose and Nasal Snoring
Nasal congestion has several causes.
When people suffer from allergies, hay fever, and sinusitis, the nasal airway becomes narrow, and breathing through the nose creates vibrations in the airflow, resulting in snoring.
These conditions may be treated with nasal strips or nasal dilators, often as a temporary measure. If it is possible to identify and remove the cause of the allergy, then it makes sense to do so – although this can often be difficult. Nasal sprays may also alleviate the inflammation – but only for a few days
A small study was done to try to evaluate the effects of external nasal strips and sleep position on snoring and quality of sleep. The results showed that sleeping on the side instead of the back helped, and using nasal strips made sleep less disrupted.
It is important to realize nasal strips are not sufficient for treating sleep apnea.
Physical Abnormalities of the Nose
The only effective treatment for such conditions as polyps, nasal septal deviation, and huge adenoids which block the nose, is surgery. This usually gives excellent results.
Anti-snoring pillows
The idea behind these anti-snoring pillows is to support the head in a position which keeps the jaw open and maintains an open airway, and yet be comfortable enough for the person to get to sleep.
The pillow should give good support for the neck and spine and prevent the chin dipping down onto the neck, which closes off the airway.
The advantages are that you do not need pills or potions, you not need to put something in your mouth or to wear a mask. They should be comfortable and non-invasive.
But – watch out!
Many anti-snoring pillows are uncomfortable and ineffective. They are either shaped pillows, or they are fitted with an internal balloon which adjusts you head when you move. Unfortunately, this adjustment often tilts your head forwards, and results in your chin dipping down and narrowing your airway,
However, the Nitetronic anti-snoring pillow has a different rolling effect. With multiple inner chambers, instead of tilting your head it rotates your head while you sleep. Try this: make a snoring sound while looking straight ahead - now try to make the same sound while looking to the side. What do your notice? Isn’t it harder to snore effectively on the side?
When you turn your head to the side, the gap between your tongue and throat gets wider, so the vibration ceases, and all is quiet.
The Nitetronic goodnite™ Anti-Snore Pillow claims to reduce snoring by up to 85%. And if you want a pillow with lots of gadgets, you could try the Zeeq Smart Pillow. This plays music, has a snore alarm and feels very comfortable. Reviews suggest it may be slightly less effective than the goodnite™ pillow.
Mouthpieces
Which mouth piece to choose?
There is a bewildering choice of mouth devices on the market. Finding the right one for you is tricky – but can be well worth the effort. The market realizes this so manufacturers often provide a money back guarantee. So, for a limited time, you can test the device out to see if it is your perfect fit.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRD)
If you lie on your back, there is good chance your tongue is the culprit – it drops to the back of your mouth and blocks your airway. A TRD is designed to keep your tongue forward, and it doesn’t go inside your mouth at all.
You do need to be able to breathe through your nose for this device. However, you can use this even if you have loose teeth, dentures or talk in your sleep. A small suction cap attaches it to the tongue, and the tags on the device fit snugly between your inner cheek and gums. It is held quite securely.
For the right person, these are effective, comfortable and non-invasive.
Mandibular Advancement Devices(MAD)
These work by keeping your lower jaw from falling back. This makes it harder for your tongue to relapse and block your airway.
The mouthpieces need to fit to be comfortable, and there are several different ways the manufacturers have found to do this. You can find a comparative review of mouthpieces here.
Dental Impressions
The mouth piece comes with a tray with the impression material in. You simply have to boil it to soften the material, bite hard on it and then cool it down, with the help of ice.
You will need to note whether you should push your jaw out to make the impression or use a normal jaw position, and then adjust the mouthpiece later.
Some companies will send you a dental impression kit. Your make your impression, return it, and they make your custom mouthpiece. Although you have to wait for it, the fit is usually very good.
A few products, like ZQuiet, come ready made – but you may need to trim them with a file.
Adjustable Mouthpieces
Another way to get the perfect fit is to make adjustments to the device. The SnoreRX allows you to make adjustments up to 6 mm. You may find cleaning these a little more difficult due to the additional nooks and cranies.
Points to Consider when Buying a Mouthpiece
Your mouthpiece is going to spend almost a third of your life inside your mouth! So, you need to take care in choosing one that is safe, effective and comfortable.
Holes in Your Device
Some people need extra air holes. If you are a mouth breather, you need airflow holes. Remember the larger the holes, the bulkier the device.
Material
This is important! Not all devices are the same.
It must be completely smooth. Even a small irregularity, constantly rubbing in the same place, can make you feel very sore.
As for chemicals., some of the cheaper versions use cheaper material. Make sure your device is constructed from a medical grade thermoplastic material.
Latex Allergy
It is not uncommon (around three million Americans) for people who are exposed to latex repeatedly to develop an allergy to it. Be very sure you do not have a latex allergy if your device contains latex.
Getting Used to Your Device
Both the tongue retaining device(TRD) and the mandibular advancement device (MAD) take some getting used to. You are likely to have a sore tongue or jaw for a few days. But it should not be painful. You may find you are drooling a lot – this does improve.
Safety
As long as the United States Food and Drug Administration has cleared the device, you can be sure it is safe. You still need to be aware of the materials it is made from, especially if you do not purchase the product directly from the manufacturer.
Read the Instructions
Check that your teeth are firm, and check whether your device has been passed for use with dentures if that applies to you. For most denture wearers, MADs are probably not the first option. And what about bridge work, crowns or caps? This is one of the advantages of the TRD, in that they can be worn with weak or compromised teeth.
Cleaning Your Device
As you can imagine, your mouthpiece gets dirty and needs cleaning after every meal to eliminate get rid of food particles and to prevent the build-up of bacteria. Manufacturers may sell their own brand of effervescent tablets, for a weekly soak, other may simply advise a toothbrush and paste just as in cleaning your teeth. Whatever method you use, it is vital that you clean your device regularly.
Do You Grind Your Teeth?
Many people who snore also grind their teeth. An MAD can treat both conditions, although the device may not last as long! Normally, they last between 6 months to 18 months, but there is a great variation.
Abnormal Jaw Architecture
If you have a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), where your jaw is misshapen, perhaps through arthritis, injury, a misaligned bite or dislocation, you should not insert a mouthpiece as they can make the condition worse.
Children
Young children often snore. The size of their airway is smaller than that of an adult and tonsils and adenoids are comparatively large. They are also prone to repeat upper respiratory tract infections.
Placing objects in a growing child’s mouth is damaging and may lead to distortion on the jaw as normal growth is hindered.
Most children grow out of their “snoring phase,” but there is still a minority who need the “Ts & As” operation to remove their tonsils and adenoids. These children commonly breath through their mouths which, always seem to be open, and they have a nasal quality to their voice.
They may also have associated hearing problems which affect their speech and general development – so children need to be assessed by a pediatrician.
What About Cost?
Costs vary from $30 to $200 or more. The most expensive is not necessarily the best option for you in terms of fit and comfort.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea goes as stage further than simple snoring. The breathing actually stops and restarts with a gasp. This can happen many times during the night, a frequency of five times per hour is not unusual. Each episode can last for several minutes. The result is a sleep-deprived person, and the long term results can be catastrophic. However, treatment is very effective and can completely change the quality of life for that person – as well as their partner.
The first line treatment for both snoring and sleep apnea rely mainly on lifestyle changes, losing weight if you are obese, giving up smoking and late-night alcohol, and getting enough sleep!
Treatment is often with CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), where you wear a face mask covering your mouth and nose or just your nose as demonstrated in the illustration above. This is attached to a quiet pump which you soon get used to. The positive effects on how you feel in the daytime can be dramatic,
Sometimes an MAD may help. Sometimes surgery is indicated.
Final Thoughts
The value of a good night’s sleep cannot be over-estimated. There are a lot of new innovative snoring aids every year. If you snore, first eliminate sleep apnea as a cause by consulting your doctor. Then, take the time to find the best anti-snoring device for you. Your partner will be delighted and for you, the value of a good night’s sleep may, perhaps, be measured in the value of your waking hours, in increased energy.
The number of anti-snoring devices on the market has grown in the last several years. Devices include mouthpieces, tongue depressors, nose clips, chin straps, and pillows. There are even surgical procedures to help eliminate snoring.
Anti-snore Pillows
Anti-snore pillows are not a new product segment. Traditionally, they come in several varieties such as side sleeping, wedge-shaped, cervical, and body pillows. Although they position the head and neck in different ways, they all work on the same principal – keeping the tongue and jaw in a forward position to keep the airway unobstructed.
The new entrants into the market are 'smart pillows.' These pillows use a bio-feedback mechanism to control the position of the head on the pillow to reduce snoring. Some of them even have apps to track the user’s snoring!
2017 Winner: The goodnite ™ Anti-Snore Smart Pillow
One of the newest smart pillows has risen to the top of the ranks in successfully reducing or eliminating snoring.
In a 2014 clinical study at the University ENT Clinic in Mannheim, Germany, 157 patients were studied using the goodnite™ pillow, and all of them benefitted from a significant reduction in snoring.
The study also showed that the operation of the pillow was gentle enough it did not cause a reduction in the total sleep time of the participants and concluded that the head rotation affected by the pillow is responsible for the reduction of snoring.
In a 2013 field test, the University ENT Clinic also demonstrated a snoring reduction of 67% with users in the home environment.
What is the goodnite ™ Anti-Snore Pillow?
Introduced in Europe in 2012 and the U.S. and Canada in 2016, the pillow is German engineered and designed to reduce snoring and promote deep, restorative sleep. The pillow is comfortable and easy to use. It is non-invasive and has no side effects, other than the benefits of a great night’s sleep!
How Does the goodnite ™ Anti-Snore Pillow Work?
The pillow looks like a traditional pillow with a tube and a small air compressor attached to it. When the user is asleep, sensors in the pillow detect breathing and snoring sounds as well as the position of your head. When snoring is detected, the sensors activate the soundless air pump which inflates one of the several air chambers in the pillow. This turns the head gently to one side. If snoring begins again, the pumps manipulate the air chambers to again rotate the head.
With this movement, the distance between the tongue and throat increases, and the soft palate and throat are straightened, thus alleviating snoring.
Includes Smart Pillow Apps
This technologically advanced pillow is also Bluetooth enabled and includes two apps that work with the goodnite ™ pillow.
Nitelink app – This app records your snoring using the microphone on your mobile phone.
Nitelink2 app – This app monitors your snoring by connecting your smartphone to your goodnite ™ pillow. The app produces a ‘sleep efficiency score’ and shows other information about your sleep such as head position charts. The app is most effective if you follow their suggestion to not activate your pillow for the first three nights. This allows the app to gather baseline data on your sleep so you can track the pillow’s (and your) success in the battle against snoring.
While the Nitelink apps are a fantastic benefit of the goodnite ™ pillow, the pillow can be used without installing the apps on your smartphone. Just turn on the pillow and enjoy a great night’s sleep!
Other Features of the Niteronic
In addition to advanced technology, the pillow also has some other notable features:
The pillow itself is not washable, but the cover is. Nitetronic also recommends you use a pillowcase.
While not designed to take the place of your CPAP machine, the pillow can be used in addition to your CPAP machine to promote even better sleep.
The goodnite™ pillow will help alleviate snoring in whatever position you choose to sleep in.
Conclusion
This is the pillow for you if snoring causes problems for you and your partner! With all its excellent features and technology, the Nitetronic goodnight anti-snore pillow could help you win the war on snoring.
So, you snore. You have for a while and you want to do something about it. The problem is several options on the market claim they can resolve your issue. But which should you choose?
The SnoreRx has always been our favorite and most popular device, but let's discuss some of the most effective options available to help you determine which is the best anti-snoring appliance for you.
The first thing you need to establish is what is causing your snoring. Some factors include:
Your Age - The older you get, the narrower your throat and nasal passages become. A simple change in your before-bed routines, including throat exercises, may help to reduce snoring.
Nasal and Sinus Issues - Having a stuffy nose or blocked airway may cause you to snore when you are sick or experiencing allergies.
Bodyweight - Your weight plays a huge role in how well you sleep, and can impact your snoring levels. If your snoring is caused by extra weight, lifestyle changes, such as exercising more and losing weight, may help you to stop snoring.
Medication/Alcohol - Consumption of many everyday items may lead to an increase in snoring. Alcohol relaxes muscles, including those in your throat, causing vibrations. Some medications can have the same impact as alcohol, so take only those medications prescribed by your doctor and limit your evening cocktail to one drink early in the evening.
Sleep Position - It is common knowledge that your back is the best sleeping position, but that doesn’t mean it is the best for you. Sleeping on your back causes throat muscles to relax and block the airway. Try to sleep on your side if you can.
After years of trial and error, I have discovered many effective stop snoring solutions. You may have to experiment with a variety of products to determine which product works for your specific needs.
Naturally - Finding a natural solution to stop snoring is often your first option. They are the cheapest and are more readily available.
Natural solutions include:
Mouthpieces - The mouthpiece is arguably the most successful and used snoring aid on the market.
Mouthpieces have been around for years and are proven to help eliminate snoring. They are often fitted by a dentist, and work by either stabilizing your jaw, pushing your jaw slightly forward, and/or depressing your tongue. Zyppah is a popular device, as is zQuiet. Although most have been through lab trials to back up their claims, make sure to check out my mouthpiece reviews before settling on one.
Chin Straps - Chin straps, like mouthpieces, have a high success rate.
Chin straps stabilize your jaw by wrapping under your chin, keeping it stabilized, then around the top or back of your head. The most common side-effect being some discomfort, as some might move/slip while sleeping.
CPAP - CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, comes in different varieties, with an over-the-face mask being the most common.
A CPAP machine increases air pressure in your throat, preventing airway collapse. The effectiveness of this device is unrivaled, but may also be uncomfortable. The biggest complaint from users is discomfort with initial use.
Bedding – You may not be sleeping alone. Allergens and mites may be causing your throat and nasal passages to swell, leading to snoring. This option may seem foreign to you, but more recently, there have been advancements in natural bedding that act as a snoring aid.
Bedding that is made of natural, hypoallergenic materials aid in snoring relief related to allergies. Research the type of bedding you choose, as not all work as well as others. Another bedding option is anti-snoring pillows. Pillows attempt to position your head in a way to promote sleep and prevent snoring. Experience shows that pillows typically help, but are not a one-stop solution to stopping snoring.
Final Thoughts
Snoring affects many people. However, our understanding of snoring and the causes has increased over the years, producing a broad range of anti-snoring products. With a market flooded with options designed to stop snoring or alleviate sleep apnea symptoms, you may feel overwhelmed, but with some basic research, you can find the cause of your snoring, and easily find a solution that works for you.
Millions of people all over the world suffer from snoring problems, and it affects both children and adults. Typically, snoring is caused by a narrowing of the airway as you sleep. And while there is no cure to fully eliminate the causes of snoring, there are some devices that will provide an adequate remedy. Here are the 6 best anti-snoring devices that are on the market, and each will help you get a peaceful night’s sleep.
SnoreRx
One of the top products that prevent snoring is the SnoreRx system. SnoreRx is a mouthpiece that is worn when sleeping. The SnoreRx mouthpiece works by moving the lower jaw forward, but only slightly, so that it does not cause any discomfort. Moving the jaw causes the airway to remain open while you sleep, which allows for the easy passage of air. Perhaps, the most prominent feature of the SnoreRx mouthpiece is its ability to be adjusted in millimeter increments, so that it will fit comfortably in any jaw. This high level of adjustment is achieved without any metal parts so that the mouthpiece will not be susceptible to rust and corrosion.
ZQuiet
The ZQuiet anti-snoring device is a mouthpiece that has been specially designed to provide users with a snore-free night of sleep. ZQuiet works by eliminating the vibrations of air as it makes its way through your airways. This vibration is largely responsible for the noise that is attributed to snoring. Unlike some devices, which implement the use of a rigid mouthpiece, the ZQuiet is made from a soft rubber like material that conforms to the contour of your mouth. This product was designed by a dentist and has to be approved by the FDA, therefore you know this is a product that can be counted on.
Good Morning Snore Solution
Just as the name suggests, the Good Morning Snore Solution will ensure you get a good night’s sleep, so you are well rested for the coming day. The Good Morning Snore Solution offers a different approach to stop snoring than other common remedies. This system works by using the power of suction to pull on the tongue, which in turn, helps to keep the airway clear by keeping the tongue stationary. Having a device pulling on your tongue all night may sound uncomfortable, however, the designers have gone to great lengths to ensure the Good Morning Snore Solution is as gentle on the tongue as possible.
Zyppah
While it is true that most anti-snoring mouthpieces are far from fashionable, the developers of the Zyppah mouthpiece have made a product that is as visually appealing as any similar device. This device comes in an attractive color scheme that adds an element that other anti-snore devices lack. Known for its hybrid design, the Zyppah incorporates two methods of operation to prevent users from snoring. The Zyppah holds the jaw in a forward position like other anti-snoring mouthpieces and also helps keep the tongue stationary. In addition, the mouthpiece has a hole that allows the wearer to breathe through their mouth while sleeping.
AirSnore
Similar to other anti-snoring devices, the AirSnore works by keeping the upper airway clear while you sleep. Not only does the AirSnore prevent users from snoring, but it also makes it possible to breathe easier. To increase the effectiveness of their anti-snore system, AirSnore has developed AirSnore Drops, which are specially formulated natural oils from sunflower seeds and eucalyptus leaves. Taken before bed, these drops will help you fall asleep more quickly.
Therasnore
Preferred by many hospitals, the Therasnore anti-snore mouthguard has been a leader in the industry for over a decade. This product is particularly durable, with an average lifespan of more than two years, so you know you will get your money’s worth. Therasnore is the most widely used anti-snoring device. To make this mouthpiece even more adaptable, Therasnore has built this product to be fully-adjustable, including 5 different sizes that are sure to fit any mouth.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that problems associated with snoring affect many of us. However, as technology shows signs of progress and more anti-snoring solutions become available, these issues will steadily decrease. If you suffer from snoring related issues, consider using an anti-snoring mouthpiece, such as the SnoreRx, ZQuiet, or the Zyppah.
Consider the Good Morning Snore Solution or AirSnore, as these devices differ from standard solutions by using tongue suction and natural anti-snore drops. Making use of any of these anti-snoring devices could provide you and your partner with the peaceful night of sleep.
If you have read my review on SomnoGuard, then you already know that the device I put to the test was the AP version. This is their most popular snoring mouthpiece. However, I thought it would be helpful to include an overview on the other SomnoGuard models, as well. If you are interested in the SomnoGuard AP please check out the review for that particular model.
SomnoGuard AP Pro
SomnoGuard AP Pro is a custom-made version of the AP model. It also allows for 10 millimeters of adjustment to tweak lower jaw placement, and it offers very limited lateral lower jaw movement.
It does appear to be a little less bulky than the AP version in pictures, but it features a stainless steel component, so I am not sure how the increased weight would affect comfort. I can't imagine it would help. There are a lot of crevices on this model, so cleaning would be extra effort, as well. Mouth breathing is permitted through the hole right between the upper and lower trays (similar to Zyppah).
SomnoGuard SP
I have to admit, looking at SomnoGuard SP makes me cringe a little. It looks even bulkier than the AP option. It comes as a soft and hard version. The soft one doesn't look so uncomfortable, but it is said to have good retention characteristics.
That being said, both the soft and hard versions look like they would be a real pain to clean. I imagine you would have to use a denture cleaner every day to get bacteria out of the many small crevices.
The lower jaw can be adjusted from -3 to +10 millimeters. Both versions are fitted using the boil-and-bite method. No stainless steel is used on these mouthpieces. Although there is an airflow hole it is considerably smaller than what is found in AP and AP Pro.
It is stated that the minimal bite opening is supposed to make it more streamlined to increase comfort, but if you are a mouth breather then this amount of air probably will not be suitable all night.
SomnoGuard 3
Unlike the other versions that were two pieces, SomnoGuard 3 has a one-part design. The design, which is also fitted using the boil-and-bite technique, is said to have improved retention. However, it does not allow for lower jaw adjustments and it does not have any breathing holes, so you have to breathe through your nose. Also, the average lifespan is about 12 months. It looks as though this upgrade lost all of its distinguishing characteristics.
My Somnoguard Coupon will not necessarily apply to all models, so please let me know if it is not working upon purchase.