It is estimated that 45% of normal adults snore occasionally, but 25% are habitual snorers. Heavy snoring is more common in males and overweight persons and the problem usually grows worse with age.
Snoring is not simply a bad habit that a person can be trained to give up, but is caused by a partial obstruction of the airway in the back of the throat and nose. The characteristic rattling sound is the vibration of the soft palate and uvula or other structures in the upper airway. This is the result of the airway being constricted by one or more of these physical conditions:
Poor muscle tone in the soft palate. This may worsen when muscles are relaxed by the consumption of alcohol, drugs, or smoking.
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids.
A large uvula.
Blocked nasal air passages, common with a cold or allergies.
Obstructed nasal airways, caused by polyps, cysts, or a deviated septum.
Excessive weight, causing tissues in the neck to be bulky and flaccid.
Hypothyroidism and other glandular disorders.