Problems in the bedroom? Reader, you are too quick to jump to assumptions. Today we’re talking about a different kind of issue between the sheets, one defined by long, restless nights of resentment. And one which can have a surprisingly all-encompassing impact on the harmony of a relationship. Yep, this one’s about the ol’ sleep snuffle; snoring. But despair not, there are simple steps which your partner and you can take to reduce both the issue itself and the emotional toll it takes on your domestic bliss. With that in mind, here are 5 IDEAL ways to cope with a snoring spouse.
KICK EMOTION OUT OF BED, NOT YOUR PARTNER
If you’re kept awake by your partner’s nocturnal noises we get it; you’re sleep-deprived, short-fused and simmering, and at times the grunting, whistling and snorting seem almost deliberate. Malicious, even.
But when you see the problem through tired, emotional eyes, your perspective gets blurred. Snoring is a health problem and should be approached as such, with sympathy and patience.
GIVE THOUGHT TO APPROPRIATE TREATMENT
Treatment for snoring is out there, but the most appropriate approach differs from person to person. First of all, try to get your partner to sleep on their side as sleeping on your back can squash your nasal airways which can cause snoring. If that doesn’t work, these remedies might;
- Nasal sprays are useful when it comes to smoothing the airways. You can spray it on the nasal passages before going to sleep to allow for better airflow and, in turn, reduced snoring.
- External nasal strips also work well. Available from any decent pharmacy, they don’t require prescriptions, are affordable and easy to apply.
- ZenSleep is a great option if you are looking for an effective anti-snoring system, as it contains 5 different products all designed at both tackling snoring and mitigating the negative impact of it.
As always though, prevention is preferable to cure. Encouraging your partner to limit lifestyle choices which cause snoring is the best way to reduce it. These include smoking, excessive drinking and a lack of exercise.
IMPROVE EXTERNAL SLEEPING CONDITIONS
Another factor affecting snoring is the correct level of comfort in your bed and bedroom. It’s a vicious circle, as snoring is caused by and also causes a restless night’s sleep. Imperative, then, to get every aspect sorted.
Consider essential ergonomics with regard to your mattress. Therapeutic mattresses have adjustable settings to benefit their sleepers and for people who snore, a mattress that can provide elevation to their heads is ideal. Clinically, such a mechanism will significantly alleviate the snoring problem. Supportive pillows for head elevation are also a well worth looking into.
EARPLUGS
A last resort, we know, but sometimes you do have to look after number one. Earplugs, a visible indicator of the disruption being caused to your sleep, will work to shut out the noise of your partners snoring. What’s more, the necessity for wearing them may also prompt your spouse to look into the measures suggested above, as the seriousness of the issue will be brought home by your wearing of the earplugs.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Don’t brush off snoring as comedic or an everyday problem; it could be the noticeable manifestation of an otherwise symptomless issue.
Snoring is a possible indicator of underlying medical conditions. For instance, sleep apnea is typically detected through perennial snoring, so don’t simply push the problem to one side and hope it dissipates. Take action, now.
