Study Says Snoring Causes Must Be Identified, Remedies Targeted

A new study by a consumer watchdog group called Which? reveals that three-quarters (71%) of the people who try over-the-counter snoring solutions find that the remedies do not work, reports the BBC. Among the devices and snoring aids tested were nasal strips and throat sprays. Of the 2,000 snorers that Which? studied, very few of the snorers gained relief from the remedies and some even became so uncomfortable while using them that they would refuse to use the device in the future.

Part of the reason for this, according to a Which? spokesperson, is that snoring is often caused by many factors, so any one product may not offer all of the snoring relief that the snorer needs. The study did not rule out any efficacy on the part of the devices and treatments, but researchers stressed that successful treatment was dependent on first identifying the causes, and then treating specific causes with related products and/or devices. Which? Senior Researcher Joanna Pearl said, “Before you buy, see what you can do yourself and rule out potential health problems such as severe sleep apnea. And talk to a health professional such as a GP or dentist if it doesn’t improve.” Once the cause has been identified and lifestyle changes have been made, snorers can consider remedies which target their specific symptoms.