Snoring, especially when accompanied by sleep-disordered breathing conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, can have significant effects on the airways, including the lungs and bronchial tubes (bronchi). While snoring itself primarily affects the upper airway, it can indirectly impact the lower airways through various mechanisms. Here's a closer look at the impact of snoring on the airways:

1. Inflammation and Irritation

• Upper Airway Inflammation: Chronic snoring can lead to inflammation and irritation of the tissues in the upper airway, including the throat and nasal passages. This inflammation may extend to the lower airways, contributing to bronchial irritation and respiratory symptoms. 코골이방지

2. Increased Risk of Respiratory Infections

• Compromised Immune Function: Snoring and sleep-disordered breathing can compromise immune function, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The inflammation and irritation caused by snoring may further exacerbate susceptibility to infections.

3. Exacerbation of Asthma

• Bronchial Irritation: Snoring-induced inflammation and irritation of the upper airway tissues can trigger bronchial irritation and airway hyperresponsiveness in individuals with asthma. This may exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

4. Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Snoring is a common symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of airway obstruction during sleep. OSA can lead to intermittent hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) and hypercapnia (elevated carbon dioxide levels), which can affect respiratory function and exacerbate airway inflammation.

5. Respiratory Symptoms

• Chronic Cough: Chronic snoring and sleep-disordered breathing can contribute to chronic coughing, especially upon waking in the morning. The irritation and inflammation of the airways caused by snoring may trigger coughing episodes.
• Wheezing: Individuals with snoring-related airway inflammation may experience wheezing, particularly during sleep or after physical exertion. Wheezing is a common symptom of bronchial constriction and airway inflammation.