How Snoring Affects Your Partner


Spousal Arousal Syndrome (SAS) is the name given to the problems that non-snoring partners suffer because they sleep with a snorer.

Researchers who have studied Spousal Arousal Syndrome learned that silent sleepers are adversely affected by the snoring of their partners. Snoring can disturb ones sleep multiple times an hour. Non-snoring partners average an hour to two hours less sleep each night even if they don’t remember waking. This lack of sleep can cause the silent sleeper to experience daytime fatigue and irritability, weight gain, higher blood pressure, memory problems, increased propensities for accidents or illnesses and many other problems associated with sleep deprivation.

SAS It can adversely affect jobs and social life. Silent sleepers may struggle with low self-esteem, effecting personal and professional relationships. If too sleep deprived, silent sleepers may lose interest in sex. (For more information on how snoring can affect you, see “Snoring Is More Than Just a Night-Time Trial”)

If you have a partner who snores, the effects could be more serious than simply a night-time disturbance. Long term medical and social effects can result, so talk to your partner about the effects of their snoring. (For ideas, see “Talk To Your Partner about Snoring”)

If the snoring is due to congestion, illness or other temporary conditions, nasal strips such as Breathe Lift™ Nasal Strips can help. If the snoring is persistent, talk to your doctor. Simple steps such as a better sleep position may also help. The Better Sleep Pillow™ elevates the head to properly support the airways for improved air flow. Losing weight is another way to help control snoring. Read “Ways to Reduce or Eliminate Snoring” for more ideas.

Researchers are finding many more ways that snoring adversely affects people and finding new ways to treat it. Snoring should never be ignored. Even if you aren’t snoring, both of you are affected.

For more insight, see also “Talk to Your Partner About Snoring” and “Tips for Non-Snoring Partners”

TALK TO YOUR PARTNER ABOUT SNORING

It’s sad but true. Most sleepers who struggle with a snoring partner have argued about the night-time noise. Some studies show that 80% of them have to sleep apart!

So how can a couple discuss snoring and find ways to allow and enjoy sharing the same bed again?

DON’T BLAME THEM. Snoring is not a choice; it is a symptom of a problem. In many cases snorers are often unaware that they are snoring or to what extent.

EXPRESS YOUR LOVE. Let your partner know you are worried that snoring may be affecting their life adversely during the daytime as well as at sleep. Discuss the ways snoring negatively affects their life and yours. (See “Snoring Is Not Just a Night-Time Trial”)

CREATE A PLAN. Once aware of adverse effects of snoring, ask if there are any suggestions or ideas for improving their sleep. So be ready to offer several ideas. Would they be willing to change sleep positions? If so, a Better Sleep Pillow™ may help. Would they be willing to try nasal strips to improve air flow? Breathe Lift™ Nasal Strips offer more support than other nasal strips on the market and may be a welcomed option Suggest a weight loss program. Offer to support or help tin their quest. Ask also if they would see a doctor. (See “Ways to Reduce or Eliminate Snoring”) Whatever your decision make sure the choices are made together.

WORK TOGETHER. Remember, once someone falls asleep they cannot control the tendency to snore. The steps to reduce or eliminate snoring must be made while awake. Because snorers often don’t know when or if they are the snoring, non-snoring partner should also be pro-active in helping both to improve sleep quality. Snoring is not a ‘his’ or ‘her’ problem. It is a challenge best met together.

For more ideas on how to get a good night’s rest while sleeping with a snorer, See “Tips for Non-Snorers.”

TIPS FOR NON-SNORING PARTNERS

There are a variety of “Ways to Reduce or Eliminate Snoring” for the one suffering from snoring. Everything from losing weight, to eliminating alcohol and smoking, to using sleep aids such as Breathe Lift Nasal Strips and the Better Sleep Pillow.