National Stop Snoring Week – April 20, 2024

United Kingdom

History
Timeline
FAQs
Importance
Observe

History of National Stop Snoring Week

The British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association (B.S.S.A.A.) declared National Stop Snoring Week to raise awareness about snoring and sleep issues related to “dangerous snoring.” Snoring affects a large portion of the adult population. Long-term snoring can be an indicator of a potentially fatal sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea in 4% to 10% of adults. Snoring and sleep apnea are two ends of the sleep breathing spectrum.

Snoring is produced by turbulence and resistance in the back of the throat, usually caused by an abundance of soft tissues. Snoring is a big issue for many people who believe that a decent night’s sleep is a human right. Sound sleep has a strong influence on good health. Indeed, sleep is so crucial that the World Health Organization (WHO) held a meeting to review the long-term effects on the health of disturbed sleep.

Sleep disturbance, budding hearing impairment, declining daily functionality, mental health difficulties, cognitive challenges, and unacceptable social behavior can all be indicators of long-term exposure to loud noise. Sleep deprivation can also harm physiological systems such as hormonal release, glucose regulation, and cardiovascular function, resulting in poor overall health.

According to research, the louder the noise, the poorer the sleep. The noise quality is also an issue. Snoring can range from gentle vibrations or whistles to very loud growling. Some noises are irritating while others, despite being at the same volume, are not. The noise of snoring is well known to be one that cannot be tolerated for long without disrupting sleep.

National Stop Snoring Week timeline

700 B.C.

The First Bed

The first mention of a bed appears in Homer's "Odyssey.”

450 B.C.

Defining Sleep

Alcmaeon, a Greek physician, defines sleep as a lack of circulation to the brain due to blood draining from the body surface.

1903

Sleeping Medication is Invented

Barbital becomes the first sleeping pill ever introduced.

1950s

Oral Devices are Introduced

Oral devices that change the position of the tongue and mandible are created.

National Stop Snoring Week FAQs

Did the ancient people snore?

There is evidence that snoring and its negative consequences have plagued people for millennia. Snoring has been documented dating back 3,500 years to the ancient Egyptians, who were known to treat snoring using thyme.

Does snoring make you live a shorter life?

Snoring may appear to be a little annoyance, but this is not the case. It is linked to health issues that can raise your chances of dying prematurely.

Do skinny people snore?

Obesity causes fat to accumulate around the neck, squeezing and narrowing the throat. However, slim people snore as well, as do many overweight people.

How to Observe National Stop Snoring Week

Schedule an appointment with your doctor
Make an appointment with a sleep specialist if you need to adjust your sleeping patterns. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.
Download an app
Those in need of sleep assistance could turn to mobile applications for assistance. These apps are dedicated to either soothing the brain toward sleep or measuring sleeping cycles throughout the night.
Spread the word
Spread the word to your friends and family about the benefits of a good night's sleep. Participate in National Stop Snoring Week by sharing facts on your social media platforms.

Why We Love

The danger threshold
According to the WHO’s guidelines, the annual average night exposure to noise should not exceed 40 decibels.
The long-term impact
Exposure to nighttime disturbances and lack of sleep can negatively affect your health.
Bad company
People who are bed partners with snorers tend to develop haphazard sleep patterns.
Pardon?
Sharing a bed with a snorer can damage your hearing.
Alcohol worsens snoring
Alcohol is a depressant, and its sedative impact relaxes your entire body and mind, including the components that govern your breathing.

Why National Stop Snoring Week is Important

It improves health
Research has shown that snoring is linked to different health challenges. Snoring has a variety of risk factors for the body's systems, and treatment goes a long way in improving overall health and well-being.
Good sleep boosts memory
A good night’s rest has several benefits for the human body. In the long run, a good night's sleep can boost your memory.
It creates awareness
People often dismiss the importance of seeking treatment for snoring and improving sleeping habits. Now is a good time to assess the quality of your sleep.