It’s more than a noisy habit. Snoring could be a signal from your body that something deeper is affecting your health.

Snoring doesn’t just disturb your sleep or your partner’s sleep. It can put strain on your heart, reduce oxygen levels, and sometimes point to a serious condition like sleep apnea. Left untreated, it can lead to fatigue, poor concentration, and long-term health risks.

At The Sleep Institute, we help uncover the root cause of your snoring through physician-led assessments. With expert guidance and proven solutions, you can finally enjoy restful nights and healthier days. No referral is needed to get started.

Complete a Self-Referral

5 Common Reasons You Might Be Snoring

  • 1. Weight and Body Composition

    Excess weight, especially around the neck, can narrow the airway and increase the vibration that causes snoring.

    • Gaining weight can start or worsen snoring
    • Neck and throat fat compress the airway during sleep
    • Obesity is closely linked to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

    Good to know: Belly fat isn’t directly responsible, but full-body weight gain often contributes to airway restriction.

  • 2. Sleeping Position

    Snoring is worse when lying on your back, as gravity causes the tongue and soft palate to collapse toward the airway.

    • Sleeping on your side often reduces snoring
    • Specialized pillows and positional therapy devices can help

  • 3. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

    OSA is a serious sleep disorder where the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep.

    • Loud, frequent snoring, choking, or gasping are red flags
    • Untreated OSA can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and fatigue
    • Weight loss can reduce or resolve OSA in many cases

  • 4. Nasal and Sinus Issues

    Congestion forces you to breathe through your mouth, which increases airway vibration.

    • Allergies, a deviated septum, or chronic sinusitis can all play a role
    • Nasal sprays, rinses, or surgery may help reduce snoring

  • 5. Lifestyle Factors

    • Alcohol use relaxes the airway muscles and makes snoring worse
    • Poor hydration can cause mucus build-up, narrowing airflow
    • Sleep deprivation can lead to deeper sleep stages, where snoring becomes more intense
1 5

When to See a Sleep Specialist

Snoring may seem common, but if it's loud, frequent, or causing disrupted sleep — it’s time to get evaluated. You may benefit from:

  • A physician-led sleep consultation
  • A Level 3 home sleep apnea test
  • A personalized treatment plan that may include CPAP therapy, weight loss support, or lifestyle changes
Refer Yourself to Get Started

Why Choose The Sleep Institute?

  • Direct access to board-certified Sleep Physicians

  • No referral needed — start with a simple self-referral

  • Full spectrum of sleep testing (Level 1, 2, and 3)

  • Covered by Alberta and NWT Health

  • Expert care for all

1 5
Complete a Self-Referral Form

Sleep Education Hub

1 3