Anti Snoring Devices – Which Ones Should I Buy?
There are a bewildering number of anti snoring devices on the market today. The desire to stop snoring makes us an easy target for these gadgets, but how do we find out which work and which don’t without having to buy them all? This article will review the main snoring devices available and hopefully help you choose.
Snoring pillows
These pillows supposedly support the sleeper’s neck thus keeping the airways open and separate the soft palate from the throat. Some of them will force the user to sleep on his side which will stop many people from snoring. Other pillows have magnets included which are reported to reduce pain. There is little concrete evidence to show that these pillows stop snoring although they may work for some people by encouraging side sleeping.
Nasal strips
These sticky strips force open the nasal passages allowing the snorer to breath through his nose instead of his mouth. This simple snoring device may indeed be helpful for snorers, but only if nasal congestion was the cause of snoring in the first place.
There is a similar device to insert inside the nose to force the nostrils open. These can be uncomfortable and often fall out.
Throat spray
These work by lubricating and toning the loose tissues in the throat which helps to stop them vibrating. Most contain aromatherapy oils.
Again these are really only useful in helping to ease congestion.
Nasal sprays
Nasal sprays for snoring work to keep the nasal passages clear of congestion so that the snorer is less inclined to breathe through his mouth. This they do quite effectively, but they are unsafe to use for the long term. If you use these sprays for more than a few days, they may cause dependency and possibly make the congestion worse.
Snoring pills
These mainly aims to reduce swelling and congestion in the nose and throat passages. Most snoring pills are based on natural ingredients, but others also contain anti histamines. Again these may be of value to those who snore due to congestion.
Snoring ring
Invented in Australia, the anti snore ring works on the principle of acupressure. It is worn on the small finger of the left hand. The ring works by creating a calming effect which allows a deep sleep without snoring.
The snoring ring does have it’s fans who swear it has permanently stopped their snoring. Others say it has had no effect whatsoever. Worth a try if you’re curious!
Throat exercises
These exercises are not new and there is some evidence to show they are effective. The main problem with throat exercises is that the snorer actually has to do them for them to work well. Those who diligently practice the exercises daily report a noticeable reduction in their snoring and sometimes it has stopped completely. They work by strengthening the jaw and throat muscles as well as the tongue, all of which serves to end vibration of the soft tissues.
In conclusion most anti snoring devices may work for some people but for most they’re a waste of money. The snoring exercises I would recommend for those reluctant to use a Cpap machine or undergo surgery.
