Snoring is a common issue that can disrupt not only your partner’s sleep but also your own. Nearly 45% of adults occasionally snore, while 25 percent regularly snore.
Occasional snoring might be harmless and frequent or loud snoring could indicate an underlying health problem, such as sleep apnea or nasal obstruction. If you’ve noticed your partner regularly snoring, encouraging them to seek help can be tricky but it’s an important step toward improving both their health and your quality of sleep. Here are some tips to approach the subject with care.
Start with Empathy
It’s easy to get frustrated if snoring interrupts your sleep, but starting the conversation from a place of understanding can make all the difference. Rather than blaming your partner, express concern for their well-being. Additionally, your partner may not even realize they snore. So, share your observations with empathy and offer relevant reasons why snoring should be investigated and resolved.
There are potential risks associated with snoring including sleep apnea, fatigue or high blood pressure. This approach frames the issue as one of mutual concern rather than an annoyance.
Share the Impact on Both of You
Gently explain how their snoring is affecting your sleep and overall well-being. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. By sharing how it’s affecting both of you, your partner may realize that addressing their snoring will improve both their health and your quality of life together.
Suggest a Sleep Study
Sometimes, snoring can be a sign of a more serious condition, like sleep apnea. Recommending a sleep study can be a good way to encourage your partner to seek help from a doctor to investigate its root cause.
A sleep study can provide a clear diagnosis and help your partner understand whether their snoring is something that needs medical attention. Let them know that sleep studies can often be done at home, making the process less intimidating.
Offer to Help with Solutions
Your partner might be hesitant to seek help because they’re unsure of what steps to take and how to manage the situation or may not think it’s a big deal. Offering your support in finding solutions can be a great motivator. Whether it’s finding a doctor and scheduling an appointment, researching remedies like nasal strips or mouthguards or looking into management outcomes for certain diagnoses, showing your willingness to help can make the process feel less daunting.
Be Patient and Supportive
Change can be difficult, and addressing snoring might not be an overnight fix. Your partner may feel embarrassed or defensive at first, so it’s important to be patient and continue to offer support. Remind them that seeking help isn’t just about reducing the noise, it’s about promoting their health.
By approaching the subject with empathy, patience and a focus on mutual benefits, you can help your partner take the steps they need to address their snoring and improve both your lives.
To learn more about snoring and other ENT health, contact Pinnacle ENT Associates to schedule a consultation today.