It’s a habit that many couples regularly argue over, and now a new study has warned that sleeping next to a snorer can subject you to ‘dangerous’ levels of noise pollution.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have studied the effects of sleeping with someone who snores – and their findings suggest that it may be time to invest in some earplugs.
In the study, the researchers recorded the sounds made by 162 snorers overnight, using a moniter mounted over their bed.
The study revealed that snoring volumes exceeded 45 decibels in 66% of participants. This is fairly faint, and can be compered to the sounds made by a ticking watch.
However, 14% were found to create snores at over 53 decibels – about as loud as a dishwasher!
(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Worryingly, this is loud enough to be classed as ‘noise pollution’, according to the researchers.
In their study, published in Sleep , the researchers, led by Dr Mudiaga Sowho, wrote: “Snoring represents a source of noise pollution in the bedroom and constitutes an important target for mitigating sound and its adverse effects on bed partners.”
Snoring is caused by things such as your tongue, mouth, throat or airways in your nose vibrating as you breathe, according to the NHS.
Thankfully, there are a number of simply lifestyle changes that can help to stop or reduce snoring.
Video Loading
Video Unavailable
The NHS explained: “Try to lose weight if you’re overweight. Sleep on your side – try taping a tennis ball to the back of your sleepwear, or buy a special pillow or bed wedge to help keep you on your side.
“Consider asking your partner to use earplugs if your snoring affects their sleep.”
However, if your snoring is really causing you and your partner issues, you can visit your GP, who can refer you for treatment or further tests.
No comments:
Post a Comment