What to do when someone else’s snoring is keeping you awake

Sleep is a vital physiological activity ingrained into our daily routines. While the optimum level of sleep is said to be between 6 and 8 hours every night, each person’s specific needs are different. Whatever the case, it is important that our rest goes undisturbed as much as possible, allowing our bodies and minds the time they need to recharge. Sharing a bedroom with a partner or roommate who snores is one of the most common complaints when it comes to sleep disturbances. So, what can we do to combat the problem?

What is snoring?

First, a little about the issue itself. Snoring is a common sound that many people (or animals) make while sleeping, caused by vibrations of the tongue and soft palate as we breathe. It is typically a direct symptom of obstructed airflow from the mouth as it passes through the throat towards the lungs. While most cases are harmless, if it develops into sleep apnea (when you stop breathing for intermittent periods during sleep) or if it is causing significant disruption and upset, it is worth seeking out a sleep specialist who can help manage the problem.

In more extreme cases, it is also worth knowing the root cause of the snoring, to plan the best course of action. There are many possibilities – abnormal anatomy of the respiratory organs, allergies, thyroid disease, etc. Regardless of the cause, however, if it is your partner’s snoring that is keeping you awake, there are generally two options: to encourage them to seek help, or to find ways to minimize how much their snoring bothers you. With an estimated 1.5 hours of sleep lost each night due to a partner’s snoring, it is not a problem that should be ignored!

Sometimes the dynamic can be more complicated to navigate, however. Say, for example, it is a roommate whose snoring is keeping you awake, or a colleague with whom you are staying during a work trip. In such cases, rather than expect them to stop, it is easier to implement your own preventative solutions.

Earplugs ensure a good night’s sleep

Do you want to sleep through the night, waking refreshed and energized for the day ahead? Are you tired of tossing and turning, or heading to the living room couch? Reach for earplugs!

There are a range of options available depending on how often you intend to use them. There really is something for everyone! This includes:

  • Disposable foam earplugs – Made of soft, flexible foam that fits the inside of your ear, these are ideal for infrequent use, when you are travelling or going on a work retreat, etc.
  • Molded earplugs – designed for multiple uses, these are made of flexible silicone which quickly adjusts to the shape of the user’s ear when gently warmed. The silicone means they are waterproof, allowing you to use them at the pool as well as at night.

●    Universal reusable earplugs – Specifically designed for comfortable use even over prolonged periods, reusable plugs are best for those who always want to have a set to hand. If you want maximum comfort and effectiveness, you can also get your earplugs made to measure, meaning they have been molded to the shape of your own ear canal. This is the premium option for those who want the very best results.

A final tip: It takes the average person around 30-40 minutes to fall asleep. If your partner snores, try heading to bed before them, giving you sufficient time to pop your earplugs in and drift off before they come to bed. This should grant you the best chance of a restful evening, finally allowing you to rediscover the value of a good night’s sleep!