Anti-Snoring Devices for Restful Sleeps

Many people snore. Snoring has been a common problem to lots of people. Here are some facts that prove the same:

* Studies show that approximately one out of five Americans snores habitually, while 45% of adults suffer from occasional snoring.

* According to statistics, seven out of ten adults do not exercise regularly. Likewise, 50-60% of obese persons suffer from sleep apnea or loud snoring disrupted by completely obstructed breathing.

* More than 300 anti-snoring devices are patented in the United States.

With the aforementioned abundance of gadgets that prevent or cure snoring, how can we tell one from the other and how do we know which one will work for our case? Why don't we take a glimpse at some of those non-surgical anti-snoring devices?

* The Snore Ball

Originating from way back in the early 20th century, the snore ball --- one of the most popular devices to cure snoring --- has evolved and now has modern versions. Basically, a snore ball is a device that a snorer places on his back while he sleeps. The snorer may place the said anti-snoring device in the back pocket of his pajamas to "force" him to sleep on his side. When he tries to lie on his back --- which may lead to opening his mouth and giving off loud snoring --- the discomfort caused by the snore ball will awaken him.

This routine prevents the snorer from constantly tossing and turning and eventually causes him to get used to a side-sleeping position.

* The Sandler Pillow

So-called after its inventor's name, the Sandler Pillow is a non-surgical device utilized to ease snoring. With its special design, this pillow also "forces" the snorer to sleep on his side.

* Sleep Position Monitor

This electronic device works in the same way that the snore ball and the Sandler pillow do. However, this particular device for snoring emits a beeping noise whenever the sleeping snorer tries to lie on his back. Surely, the beeping noise can be irritating to the snorer's sleep partner and to the other members of the household. However, the sleep position monitor ultimately aims to make the snorer get used to side-sleeping without any aid at all.

* Nasal Strips

Nasal strips are among the most popular non-surgical cures for snoring. Usually made of plastic, these strips are utilized to broaden the nasal valve, thus clearing the airway that leads to the throat and lungs. These small anti-snoring devices aid in promoting better airflow which leads to a more peaceful, relaxing sleep.

* Throat Sprays

Also among the most popular and affordable cures for snoring, throat sprays contain oils that lubricate the back of the throat, drastically reducing the vibrations that take place in the trachea while one is sleeping. This, in turn, helps decrease, if not completely stop, snoring.

* Oral Appliances

Specially designed by dentists and other medical professionals, a variety of oral appliances (which come in different brands) are now used and found effective by millions of people throughout the globe.

These anti-snoring appliances may work on the tongue or the jaw and are all designed basically for the following goals:

> To prevent the release of snoring sounds by keeping the mouth shut

> To move the jaw slightly to the front, which prevents the tongue from drooping backwards and from impeding the air passages

> To expand the airway and allow for a smoother breathing pattern

* Tongue Retraining Appliances

Also known as Tongue Retraining Devices or TRDs, tongue retraining appliances aim to push the tongue forward and ease any impediment to the airway. These anti-snoring appliances utilize suction power to actually move the tongue away from the airflow and stop it from going back to its trained or original position, hence preventing the tongue from obstructing the airway.

* Mandibular Advancement Appliances (MAAs)

Also known as Mandibular Advancement Splints, MAAs, despite their being costly, are among the most popular anti-snoring devices. Designed just like traditional athletic mouthpieces or mouth guards, MAAs help in keeping the jaw in its position and stopping it from falling back and obstructing the airway.

* Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

Similar in appearance to an oxygen mask, CPAP helps in sustaining a smooth, free-flowing respiratory activity.

The gadgets featured here are just some of the hundreds of devices that prevent or cure snoring. Take note, however, that many of these should not be purchased and used without a physician's advice. So, before you get overwhelmed with the numerous anti-snoring devices available in the market, better consult your doctor first.