Is Snoring Serious?
Medically – Yes. Heavy snorers tend to develop high blood pressure at a younger age than non-snorers. Obstructive sleep apnea is an exaggerated form of snoring. Loud snoring is interrupted by frequent episodes of totally obstructed breathing. These people may spend up to half their sleep time with blood oxygen levels below normal. During these obstructive episodes, the heart must pump harder. This can cause irregular heartbeats, and eventually high blood pressure. Sleep apnea patients may spend little of their nighttime hours in deep sleep stages. They awaken unrefreshed and are sleepy much of the day. They may fall asleep while driving or while on the job.Socially – yes. It disrupts family life. Spouses often have sleep deprivation, depression, and mood alteration. Marital discord is a common result.