Snoring occurs when air cannot flow freely through the airway as a person sleeps. When the airway is narrowed or partially blocked, breathing causes the tissues of the upper airway to vibrate, resulting in the sound heard when someone snores. The following factors can cause airway blockage and lead to snoring:

• Anatomy: The size and shape of certain structures can constrict the airway and lead to snoring. For example, people are more likely to snore if they have a deviated septum, where the wall between nostrils is bent or skewed to one side. Additionally, growths in the nasal passages called polyps, having a small jaw, or bulky throat tissue can cause snoring.

• Muscle tone: Weak muscles in the throat and tongue can cause them to relax excessively during sleep, which narrows the airway. Muscle weakness can happen due to aging, drinking alcohol, taking sleep aids, or certain medical conditions.

• Weight: Being overweight increases the likelihood of snoring. Extra fatty tissues around the neck and throat can pressure the airway, causing narrowing and snoring.

• Sleep position: Sleeping on your back can cause the tongue and soft palate to collapse to the back of the throat, narrowing the airway and causing snoring.

• Sleep apnea: Snoring may be a symptom of sleep apnea, a condition that causes you to pause breathing during sleep. If snoring occurs in combination with apneic episodes (gasping for air in your sleep) and other symptoms like fatigue or irritability, then you should talk to a healthcare provider.

Other factors that can contribute to snoring include smoking, nasal congestion due to allergies or colds, and pregnancy.