Snoring is often dismissed as a minor issue. However, it is actually a specific physiological phenomenon: an increase in resistance in the upper airways during sleep.

Beyond the nighttime noise, snoring indicates a respiratory imbalance that can affect sleep quality… and sometimes lead to more severe conditions.

1. The mechanism of snoring: partial airway obstruction

Snoring occurs when the upper airways partially narrow, primarily at:

• the soft palate

• the uvula

• the base of the tongue

• the pharyngeal walls

When inhaled air flows through a narrowed space, the airflow becomes turbulent. This turbulence causes the soft tissues to vibrate—which is what generates the characteristic sound of snoring.

2. The role of sleep and muscle relaxation

During sleep—particularly during REM sleep—muscle tone naturally decreases:

• The muscles that widen the pharynx relax

• The tissues become more supple

• The airway diameter narrows

This is a physiological phenomenon.
However, when combined with other factors (inflammation, excess weight, nasal obstruction), the risk of snoring increases significantly.

3. Anatomical factors that contribute to snoring

Certain anatomical features increase the likelihood of snoring:

• Enlarged tonsils

• Long or thick soft palate

• Macroglossia (enlarged tongue)

• Underbite

• Deviated nasal septum

These factors mechanically reduce the diameter of the airways and amplify vibrations.

4. Nasal breathing, inflammation, and secretions

Impaired nasal breathing (chronic rhinitis, allergies, gastroesophageal reflux, sinusitis) leads to:

• A shift toward mouth breathing

• An increase in airflow velocity

• Increased turbulence

Chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes causes:

• Local edema

• Hypersecretion

• Increased tissue compliance

The tissues then become more vibrating and more sensitive to airflow.

5. Alcohol, stress, and aggravating factors

Certain behavioral factors increase airway collapsibility:

• Alcohol

• Sedatives

• Chronic fatigue

• Stress

• Lack of rest

They increase nighttime muscle relaxation and promote snoring.

6. Simple snoring or a warning sign?

Snoring is part of a pathophysiological continuum:

1. Simple snoring

2. Increased airway resistance syndrome

3. Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS)

Chronic, loud snoring, or snoring accompanied by pauses in breathing, daytime sleepiness, or morning headaches should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.