00:00Millions of people, including you or your loved ones, snore in their sleep, but sometimes snoring unusually loud can be
00:06a serious health alert.
00:07In tonight's House Call segment, Dr. Mariana Brown shares with us when snoring turns dangerous.
00:24Does your partner snore so loudly that it keeps you awake at night?
00:30Have you ever noticed them stop breathing, then suddenly gasp for air?
00:34Did you know that this could be a warning sign of a condition linked to heart disease and stroke?
00:40Tonight on House Call, we're discussing why people snore when it becomes dangerous and the warning signs you should never
00:49ignore.
00:50So why do people snore?
00:51Snoring happens when air passes through a narrow airway, causing tissues in the throat to vibrate.
00:58Several factors can contribute, such as
01:01Nasal congestion and allergies can restrict air flow.
01:06Excessive weight can narrow your airway.
01:09Drinking alcohol right before bed can relax the muscles of the upper airway.
01:14And sometimes snoring can point to something more serious.
01:18Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when your upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked when you sleep.
01:25Your breathing may stop for 10 seconds or longer.
01:29Your oxygen levels drop and your brain wakes you up to restore breathing.
01:34This can happen dozens to hundreds of times throughout the night without you even remembering it.
01:41Some warning signs to look out for.
01:43Loud snoring with pauses in breathing.
01:46Waking up, gasping, or choking.
01:49Feeling exhausted despite a full night's sleep.
01:53And morning headaches or difficulty concentrating.
01:56Untreated sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, heart disease, and stroke.
02:05Repeated drops in your oxygen and disruption to your sleep place strain on your cardiovascular system.
02:12Daytime sleepiness can also increase your risk of accidents.
02:16But of course there are things you can do if you snore.
02:19Managing your allergies.
02:21Avoiding alcohol before bedtime.
02:24Maintaining a healthy weight.
02:26And sleeping on your side can all reduce episodes of snoring.
02:31But if you have warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea, talk to your doctor.
02:36A sleep study can confirm the diagnosis.
02:39And a seatbelt machine may be needed to keep your airways open while you sleep.
02:45Remember, snoring is not always harmless.
02:49If it is accompanied by pauses in breathing, gasping, or daytime exhaustion, don't ignore it.
02:56Take charge of your health.
03:12It's Dr. Mariana Brown, the TD6 Health School.
