A large area at the base of the tongue, or a tongue that is
large compared to the mouth Abnormalities in the bones of the
face Use of sleeping pills, antihistamines, or alcohol at
bedtime Sometimes snoring can be a sign of a sleep disorder
called sleep apnea. This means you have periods in which you
completely or partly stop breathing for more than 10 seconds
while you sleep. The episode is followed by a sudden snort or
gasp when you start breathing again. Then you start to snore
again. If you have sleep apnea, this cycle usually happens many
times a night. Sleep apnea is not as common as snoring. The
following tips may help reduce snoring: Avoid alcohol and other
sedatives at bedtime. Don't sleep flat on your back. Sleep on
your side, if possible. Some doctors even suggest sewing a golf
or tennis ball into the back of your night clothes. This causes
discomfort if you roll over and helps reminds you to stay on
your side. Eventually, sleeping on your side becomes a habit and
you don't need to be reminded. Lose