British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association
Helping You To Stop Snoring Today
Alcohol and Sedatives
Alcohol travels to all areas of the body and slows the brain's responses, causing the muscles to relax. Alcohol also acts as a depressant. The relaxation of the musculator causes the oropharynx to collapse causing snoring. Additionally alcohol can induce obstructive sleep apnoea (where breathing stops for short periods during sleep) in individuals who are otherwise just snorers.
Some anti-depressants and other drugs can also act in the same way. This is because drugs themselves contain sedative properties. It may be wise if you are on medication to consult your doctor regarding this issue.
Alcohol causes nasal airway irritation which increases the airway resistance when breathing. The consumption of alcohol affects every organ and system in the body. It can damage heart tissue and elevate blood pressure. It also has a high caloric content, and people who are heavy drinkers are often overweight.
If you drink alcohol you should refrain from drinking for at least 4 hours before going to bed.
The current daily recommendations for drinking are :
Men 3 units
Women 2 units
1 unit = half a pint of beer = 1 glass of wine or sherry = 1 single (pub measure) of spirits = a measure of vermouth or aperitif
If possible, two or three days a week should be alcohol-free.
This page is part of the 90 Day Snore-No-More Plan. You may also like to consider the following causes :
- Obesity
Are you overweight? - Smoking Do you smoke & want to stop?
- Alcohol & Sedatives Will cause excessive muscle relaxation.
- Nasal Based Snoring Can you breathe clearly through your nose?
- Mouth Breather Commonly associated with nasal stuffiness.
- Tongue Base Snorer A common cause.
- Sleeping Position Do you sleep on your back?
- Pregnancy Often transient but could persist.
- Children Can result in failure to thrive.
- The Menopause Consider your hormones.
- Sleep Apnoea Loud snoring. Excessive daytime sleepiness?