Pregnancy Snoring

For many pregnant women, carrying extra baby weight, feeling nauseous, and being uncomfortable in general for 9 months isn’t the only nuisances they experience.  Nearly 30% of pregnant woman also start to snore during their pregnancy.  There are several reasons why snoring occurs in pregnant women, weight gain being the primary culprit.  When women start to gain extra weight, it is often stored in the throat and neck areas.  The extra weight can block the flow of oxygen in the airway which ultimately is the causes snoring.  Another contributing factor is the increased blood volume that is being produced during pregnancy.  Extra blood is needed for the growing fetus and so the blood vessels are expanding in order to transport the extra blood throughout the body and into the womb.  These expanded blood vessels cause mucous membranes to also expand, resulting in extra mucous production.  Excess mucous causes congestion which then ultimately can prevent the airway from receiving a straight and steady flow of oxygen.  Snoring then occurs when the airway is obstructed by the mucus.

Risks of Snoring during Pregnancy

Pregnant snoring isn’t something to be taken lightly.  In fact, there are some serious risks associated with snoring during your pregnancy.

High Blood Pressure and Preeclampsia

Snoring increases your risk to develop high blood pressure.  If your blood pressure remains high during pregnancy, then you are more at risk to develop obstructive sleep apnea.  Having OSA during pregnancy does not mean life or death, but should be taken seriously and brought to the attention of your doctor if you think you are showing signs of OSA.  High blood pressure typically develops in the third trimester and impacts nearly 1/3 of pregnant women.

Experiencing high blood pressure during pregnancy is commonly associated with having preeclampsia – a condition that a pregnant woman can develop when she has never had high blood pressure prior to the pregnancy.  Pregnant women with preeclampsia usually have kidney problems develop, maintain a high level of protein in their urine, and often have swelling in their extremities.

Higher Risk of Having a C-section

Women who snore during pregnancy can be at a higher risk of having a C-section during birth.  Dr. Louise O’Brien from the University of Michigan Health System has studied snoring and its impact on pregnancy and stated that,

“…chronic snoring is associated with both smaller babies and C-sections…. we have a window of opportunity to screen pregnant women for breathing problems during sleep that may put them at risk of poor delivery outcomes.”

Ultimately, stopping the snoring before it begins can not only reduce the number of small babies being born but can also cut back on emergency C-sections and help to cut healthcare expenses as well.

Gestational Diabetes

Pregnancy snoring, in general, can be a sign that you have developed gestational diabetes during pregnancy.  Gestational diabetes is a specific type of diabetes found only in pregnant women.  It’s caused by your body resisting the insulin being produced in your body due to other changes happening during pregnancy.  Your doctor should be checking your blood work throughout your pregnancy to monitor for GD but you can always ask your doctor if you think snoring may be an indicator that GD has developed.

Birthing Smaller Babies

Pregnant snoring may also be the cause of birthing a small baby that weighs less than average. When you snore, the muscles in your throat relax and the tongue falls back and blocks your airway, which prevents the normal flow of oxygen.  If your pregnant snoring is actual obstructive sleep apnea, then you may be limiting the amount of oxygen you and your baby are receiving.  Both you and your baby need plenty of oxygen in order for your baby to develop properly.  Lack of oxygen can cause numerous medical conditions, and birthing newborns that are underweight may very well be a side effect of snoring.

The Joy

Those are some pretty serious risks above that can impact you and your baby if you snore during pregnancy.  There is a simple solution to prevent this from occurring at all – ask your physician about the Joy pregnancy snoring mouthguard.  The Joy mouthpiece is a great way to minimize your snoring during pregnancy and prevent many of those risks from occurring.  The Joy even has some additional uses that can help during labor and delivery.  Always consult with your doctor before purchasing any devices related to snoring, especially during pregnancy.

What it Does

The Joy serves two key purposes: to prevent pregnancy snoring and to shorten your delivery time.  The Joy is a custom-fitted boil and bite mouthpiece that can be molded in the privacy of your own home.  Once fitted, it can be used at night to keep your jaw and tongue forward so that your airway remains open throughout the night and prevents you from snoring.  It can also be used in addition or separately if you prefer to shorter your labor delivery time.  There are two separate sets of fitting instructions for both uses which we’ll get into in just a minute.

 

How to fit it

What you need for the fitting:

• saucepan filled with water
• cup/bowl
• spoon
• timer
• mirror

Step 1.  Gather the supplies for the fitting listed above.

Step 2.  Place 8-10 ounces of water in your saucepan and bring to boil.

Step 3. Take the mouthpiece and white fitting handle out of the poly bag.  Discard the poly bag.  Place the white fitting handle into the front of the pink mouthpiece and ensure that it is flush with the airway opening on the inside.

Step 4. Turn off the burner and remove the pan from the stove top.  Pour the boiling water into a cup/bowl and allow to cool for 60 seconds.  (Do not microwave the water – it must be boiled on the stove top.)

Step 5.  Place the Joy mouthpiece in the cup/bowl for exactly 2 minutes – use your timer.  You can use the white fitting handle to ensure that the mouthpiece remains underwater, or you can use a spoon to hold it down.

Step 6.  When the 2 minutes are up, remove the Joy from the water, and touch it to make sure it’s not too hot.  Then place it in your mouth – make sure the V notch is at the top of your mouth.  Place your bottom teeth into the mold first, then sit your top teeth in.  Slightly move the jaw forward. (If you are fitting this just for labor delivery only, there is no need to move the jaw forward.)  Bite down firmly until your front teeth align.  Use the mirror for reference.

Step 7. While the Joy is still warm, use your fingers and tongue to form the soft material around your gums and teeth.  Try sucking in also as this will compress the material into place even more so.  Continue to compress your teeth into the material until it cools.  Then you can soak the formed Joy in cold water so it will set.

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If you feel like the mold is off a bit, or you would like to readjust it, just repeat the steps above.  The Joy can be refitted a few more times until you achieve the perfect fit.  Again, snoring mouthpieces are not for everyone and you may not be able to achieve the perfect fitting to prevent the snoring.  Always keep your doctor in the loop during your pregnancy and consult with them at any time.

Storage & Cleaning

The Joy pregnancy mouthguard can be stored in the provided case.  Be sure that the Joy is completely dry during storage.  The case is compact enough for safekeeping next to your bed, under your pillow, or in your toiletry case when you are traveling.

Clean the Joy with an anti-bacterial soap and warm water.  You can also use a Polydent or other denture-brand cleaning tablet or solution.

Use during birthing

The Joy’s sole use is not only to stop you from pregnant snoring but also to decrease your delivery time in the hospital.  Nearly 30% of women suffer from pregnancy snoring at some point during their pregnancy, but all women prepare for the miracle of actually giving birth – don’t you want it to be as quick and painless as possible?

Dr. Janna Mudd from the University of Maryland did a case study on 38 pregnant women during labor.  Half of the women were given a mouthguard to use during the birthing process, and more specifically during the second stage of labor when the cervix dilates more rapidly and contractions become more frequent, stronger, and closer together.  The mouthguard was intended to prevent the women from clenching their teeth and to overall expedite the labor process.  Dr. Mudd’s results interestingly enough showed that the women who used the mouthguard during delivery cut down the labor time by 12 minutes on average, compared to the controlled group of women who did not receive the mouthguard.  Studies are still being done to gather more data on mouthguards and how they can expedite delivery, but you can get the green light from your doctor now and start the fitting process.

If you intend to use the Joy under your physician’s approval during birthing as the primary use, make sure you mold the Joy to your mouth during the beginning of your third trimester to ensure that you have it ready to go in case you deliver early.  Tuck it away in your hospital bag ahead of time.

Pricing

The Joy Mouthguard retails for $49.98 + $9.95 standard shipping = $59.93.  Not bad for helping you to stop pregnant snoring as well as cut down delivery time during labor, right?
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Will A Snoring Mouthpiece Fix My Snoring Permanently?

When you have a problem, you want a permanent solution and not just a temporary fix, right?  If your problem is snoring, this statement especially rings true.

If you are considering using a snoring mouthpiece and want to know if it’s a permanent fix, the answer to this questions is – yes, it can be. I’ve used a snoring mouthpiece for many years now and know several others who have also. Snoring mouthpieces can be a long-term solution that will provide years of snoring relief, as long as you use it as intended and take good care of it.

There is, however, another permanent solution that may help to reduce or eliminate snoring in some. This solution doesn’t cost a single dollar and can literally save you thousands of dollars over the course of your lifetime. Okay, I will give you one more hint. This solution is one of the most commonly cited new year’s resolutions. If you guessed “weight loss”, then you would be correct. Losing weight can affect your body in several different ways, including the reduction of snoring.

The (Not So) Easy Permanent Cure For Snoring

Preventing snoring may be as easy as losing a few pounds. Before going any further, I would like to emphasize that not all who snore are overweight and not all who are overweight snore. That being said, if you are overweight, losing as little as 10 lbs may seriously reduce or completely eliminate your snoring. How so? To understand how excessive weight causes snoring, it’s important to first understand where snoring originates from.

In most cases, snoring originates in the airway and may be caused by a number of different factors which are often related. Sometimes, the structure of the airway simply does not permit adequate airflow while asleep. Other times, the airway muscles get old and worn out. Often airways become partly blocked due to surrounding fatty tissue pushing against it. In nearly all instances, the airway becomes narrow and the soft tissues that surround the airway begins to “flap” against each other. This flapping motion creates the sound which is known to most of us as snoring.

Excessive fatty tissue tends to store in the neck among other areas of our body. The fat tissues exert pressure on the airway, placing force on it. As we sleep, the muscles that control our jaw, tongue, and airways begin to relax and the excessive fat pushes against the airway, causing it to narrow. When this occurs, we start to hear the sound of snoring which is created by the flapping of airway tissue.  By losing weight, you can reduce the fat around the neck which will lessen the amount of pressure on your airway.

Simple enough, right? Not always. As we get older, our bodies are not able to lose weight as easily as it did in younger years. Losing weight also takes a bit of willpower, which is difficult when you live in a fast-paced society that glamorizes calorie dense unhealthy foods.

The Easier Solution?

Perhaps you have tried to lose weight or simply have no interest in doing so. Is there an easier solution?

The snoring mouthpiece is a long-term snoring solution that works night after night, year after year. The luxury of using a mouthpiece is that you don’t have to commit to any major lifestyle changes. Before going to bed, you simply place the mouthpiece inside of your mouth and it does the rest. Upon rising in the morning, remove and clean it before leaving it out to air-dry.

How can such a small piece of plastic stop your snoring? Let’s go back to the explanation of why we snore. As mentioned, a narrowed airway is typically the source of snoring. A snoring mouthpiece rests between the upper and lower teeth and holds the jaw forward. By doing so, it holds the muscles in the airway in a tightened position and prevents the sound of snoring. There are of course other products out there that work in a similar fashion such as the AveoTSD or the Good Morning Snore Solution. Both of these products are known as Tongue Stabilizing Devices and attach to the tip of your tongue to tighten the airway by holding your tongue in the forward position.

Which one works better? In my personal experience testing both types of products, they actually both work well. Each one does, however, have its own advantages and disadvantages.

Is a Mouthpiece Made For Long-Term Use?

When using you’re a mouthpiece as a permanent solution, you should always use it as directed by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that a part of following the manufacturer’s instruction involves accurately answering their questionnaire prior to purchase. Such questionnaires are designed to determine if you can safely use their product. The company who is selling the mouthpiece is required to ask questions about your oral health such as “Do you have any loose teeth?” or “Does your jaw make a popping noise when chewing or speaking?”. These questions help them to determine if a mouthpiece is a safe solution in your particular case.

Once you receive your mouthpiece, read the instructions carefully and follow each step. For safety reasons, it’s very important to follow instructions exactly as printed and contact the manufacturer if you have any further questions.

If you plan on using a snoring mouthpiece or any other medical device for a long period of time, it’s a good idea speak with your doctor who will be able to provide advice for your individual circumstances.

A snoring mouthpiece will continue to work as long as it’s used properly and not worn out.

You will eventually have to purchase a replacement. The useful life of the product greatly depends on two factors. The first factor is the quality of the device that you choose. Just like clothing and cars, not all mouthpieces are created equal. Here is a comparison table that will help you sort through all of the available mouthpieces. Some are designed to last only 2-4 months while others can last over 2 years. The second factor that will determine useful life is the amount of wear that you exert on your mouthpiece. If you tend to grind your teeth (Bruxism) or like to chew on your mouthpiece before going to bed, it’s only going to last a fraction of its useful life.

Clean and inspect your mouthpiece after each use to ensure that it’s in good working order. If it becomes dirty or worn out, it’s time to order a replacement or a better idea is to always keep a spare on hand so that you have a replacement at all times.

Ultimately, it’s up to you and your physician to decide if a mouthpiece is a good long-term snoring solution for you. While most companies will sell you a mouthpiece after satisfying their questionnaire requirements, it’s always a good idea to first speak with your doctor.

 

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How to Keep Your Husband From Snoring

Is your husband’s snoring keeping you up all night? You may spend minutes or even hours nudging him in hopes of getting a break of silence long enough to fall asleep. Unfortunately, the silence is short-lived and the snoring resumes. Eventually, you give up and retreat to the guest bedroom to fall asleep peacefully.

While this scenario may seem comical,  as the spouse of a snorer you probably have a similar story and know that it’s no laughing matter. In fact, the issue of snoring happens to rank among the highest bedroom annoyances for couples. If you have tried everything short of stuffing a sock in his pie hole or taping his mouth closed, you may want to listen up because I have the solution for your bedroom woes.

Start with the Basics

Before moving onto more aggressive snoring solutions, you should first consider some common causes of snoring and work on coming up with a solution. Your husband’s snoring may be caused by a number of factors, many of which can be avoided by making better lifestyle choices. For instance, alcohol, sedative use, or sleeping pills can cause the airway muscles to relax. A relaxed airway is less toned and allows the tissues within the airway to collide with each other, causing the sound of snoring. If your husband uses or overuses any of these, try working with him to come up with a plan to reduce or eliminate his use.

Another possibility may simply be his sleeping position. Some snorers are “positional snorers” meaning that they only snore in certain positions. Positional snorers typically experience more snoring while sleeping on their back and legs while sleeping on their side. Simply asking your husband to sleep on his side is not always effective as he will likely roll over onto his back shortly after falling asleep. There are a few methods that can be used to keep him positioned on his side. For instance, fastening a tennis ball to the back of his shirt makes rolling over uncomfortable. Here are a few other methods that you can use.

Snoring is often caused by carrying extra weight. Fat builds up around the neck area and can actually push on the airway, causing a breathing obstruction and snoring. Convincing him to adopt a healthier lifestyle which includes a balanced diet and exercise will not only help with snoring but also has a number of other health benefits. You can speak with him about losing weight but realistically, this will have to be a decision that he makes and is committed to.

Perhaps you have considered all of the above and either they didn’t work or your husband was unwilling to entertain your suggestions. Is it time to throw in the towel and start sleeping in the guest room? Not so fast! There’s actually a snoring solution that I’ve tried and it really works well. It’s called a snoring mouthpiece and it’s a secret weapon that’s used nightly by millions of snorers and it will likely put an end to your husbands snoring problem.

Break Out the Heavy Artillery

So convincing your husband to lay off the beer, sleep on his side, or lose weight isn’t working out so well?  The snoring mouthpiece is a simple snoring solution that should be fairly easy for him to adapt to. It’s a small mouthguard-like device that rests between the teeth and prevents snoring. These devices have been used by professionals for years and are now available to (nearly) everyone. Most companies who sell such products may require you to answer a short questionnaire prior to placing your order.

How and Why Does a Mouthpiece Work?

Snoring mouthpieces are actually considered Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD) and were invented well over 30 years ago to help those with Sleep Apnea. While the snoring mouthpiece works using the same principle, it should only be used to lessen the sound of snoring and not necessarily to treat OSA. If you suspect that your husband’s snoring is being caused by OSA, he should visit his physician for an evaluation.

These mouthpieces have an upper and lower tray which fit together to form a single unit. While there are several styles to choose from, the “boil and bite” style is perhaps the most popular and effective. With this style of a mouthpiece, you simply heat it for a few seconds in a container of hot water and then insert it into your mouth, bite down, push your jaw forward, and hold for several seconds until it cools slightly.

Once the mouthpiece has been formed, it’s ready to put to use. Before going to bed, he simply pops the mouthpiece in and voila, you can enjoy a peaceful night of rest!

The mouthpiece actually holds the jaw slightly forward which opens and tightens the airway. A tight and open airway will not flap around and cause the sound of snoring. There are a number of scientific studies that show imagery of the airway before and after the use of a mouthpiece and the difference between the two is astonishing. Moving and holding the jaw just a fraction of an inch forward tightens and opens the airway which allows air to pass through without obstruction.

Where Can I Get One and How Much Do They Cost?

There are 2 options when it comes to getting a mouthpiece for snoring:

1. Visit your dentist and have him make a custom device for you. Custom fitted MAD’s usually cost around $3,000 – $5000 and are sometimes covered by insurance. Insurance usually covers MAD’s only for the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, not necessarily snoring only. If your mouthpiece is covered, you simply pay your insurance deductible which will, of course, vary according to your insurance plan. Your dentist will create an impression of your upper and lower teeth and send the impression off to a lab to create a custom mouthpiece. It will be returned to your dentist office a few weeks later and they will ensure that it fits well.
2. Buy one online. Unfortunately, at this time snoring mouthpieces are only available online and can not be purchased at drug stores or department stores such as Walmart, Walgreens, CVS or Target. You must purchase through an online retailer who will ship a mouthpiece to your house. You will receive an at-home kit which can be used to create a mouthpiece in just a few minutes at home. There are actually several different companies that make these mouthpieces. Some are similar while others are quite different. If you are interested in learning more, take a look at this comparison table which will help you to make a decision.  Most snoring internet-ordered mouthpieces range in price from $50 up to over $100.

What Else Should I Know About Snoring Mouthpieces?

Here are 5 buying tips that you may want to keep in mind if you decide to give the snoring mouthpiece a try:

• Choose one that comes with a money back guarantee. There are plenty of companies out there who offer a money back guarantee meaning that you can return it, even after trying it out. In fact, most reputable companies have at least a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Don’t waste your money on a product that doesn’t offer this.
• Look closely at where the mouthpiece is made and what it’s made of.  Avoid products that are “Made in China” or may contain “BPA”. Trust me, you don’t want a mouthpiece with either as it may be toxic or harmful.
• Shop around. These mouthpieces often go on sale from time to time. You can often find offers with free shipping, 20% off or even buy 1 get 1.
• Consider how important having an air hole in your mouthpiece is. If you are a mouth breather, this is an important consideration. Those who are not known mouth breathers may still want to consider picking up a mouthpiece that allows for mouth breathing.
• Consider the useful life of the mouthpiece. Some last only 3 months, some 6 months while others will last a year or more. While it may be less expensive now, you will not want to replace it every few months.

 

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According to the American Association or Orthodontics, it’s estimated that over 1.2 million adults in the United States are wearing braces to straighten their teeth and to obtain a beautiful smile. It’s also estimated that around 50% of adults snore, meaning that there are at least 600,000 adult snorers out there, some who are considering a snoring mouthpiece and are interested in this one question:

“Can I wear a snoring mouthpiece instead of a retainer?”

This is actually a question that I have received from several of my readers which has prompted me to discuss this topic. Before we get started, I would like to clarify that I am not a physician, only a reviewer of snoring devices with several trials under my belt. You can learn about several products that I have tried right here on this website. That being said, let’s get started by discussing exactly what a retainer is and then we will get down to the bottom of this question.

What is a Retainer?

So your braces are off and you have been issued a retainer by your orthodontist. What exactly is this for and is it important? Most who have braces are given a retainer shortly after their braces are removed. Your orthodontist may instruct you to wear it for several weeks, 24 hours a day, and you may eventually wear it only while asleep, usually for several additional months until it’s no longer needed. This process usually takes up to a year or more.

While it may not look like much, the primary purpose of the retainer is to prevent your teeth from shifting as your gums heal and stabilize. This prevents your teeth from relapsing to their original position.

There are four types of retainers – Hawley, Essix, Zendura, and Bonded, each style has its own advantages and disadvantages. The first three types are removable while the third type remains in place, usually glued in by your orthodontist and then later removed.

If you received a removable retainer and are considering a traditional boil and bite style MAD style mouthpiece, you may have noticed that there are quite a few similarities between the two. While they may appear similar, they are not the same. Here are four key differences between the two:

• Retainers are often made of a semi-ridged plastic polyvinyl chloride or similar material. They may even incorporate a wire frame that conforms to your teeth to help keep your retainer in the proper position. This semi-ridged material provides support, preventing your teeth from moving position. In contrast, most snoring mouthpieces are made from a soft, thermoplastic material that is very pliable and often does not have the metal framework or additional support to prevent movement.
• Retainers are created by your orthodontist to fit the exact contour of your teeth. This means every nook and cranny around and in between your teeth. This close fit is essential in when it comes to preventing movement. While there are several boil and bite mouthpieces that take a close impression of your teeth, none of them are going to come close to the fit that your orthodontist will create for you.
• Retainers are two separate pieces, one for the upper set of teeth and one for the lower set. The two retainers are not connected. With a snoring mouthpiece, the upper and lower trays are fused together which is how your jaw is held forward.
• Your orthodontist will monitor your progress while wearing your retainer and make adjustment as needed. With a snoring mouthpiece, there is no oversight of an orthodontist.

Simply stated, a snoring mouthpiece is not as close fitting, is one piece, is not as rigid as a retainer and is not intended to be used as a retainer. Doing so will likely result in more harm than good.

Wearing a boil and bite snoring mouthpiece in place of a retainer is not a good idea and it should not be used as a substitute. After wearing your braces for several months, the last thing that you want to do is not wear your retainer and revert back to your old smile.

If you are battling snoring while wearing a retainer, the best option is just to wait until your orthodontist gives you the okay and lets you know that your retainer is no longer needed. Alternatively, you may want to speak with your orthodontist about using a Tongue Stabilizing Device (TSD) in conjunction with your retainer. TSD’s attach to the tip of your tongue which holds the tongue forward and tightens the muscles in the airway. An example of a TSD is the Good Morning Snore Solution, which I have tested and completed a review. While this product works using a different principle in comparison to the MAD, it’s always imperative that you first discuss this option with your orthodontist prior to use.  Once again, you don’t want to lose that smile that you worked so hard to achieve.

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Can You Die From Snoring?

There has been quite a bit of attention drawn towards snoring these days. Millions of us either snore or deal with a snoring partner each night. Aside from being a nuisance for your partner, did you know that snoring can actually kill you? To be more specific, the act of snoring doesn’t actually kill, but it’s often a symptom of a more serious medical condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

OSA is a medical condition that affects an estimated one in twenty-five middle-aged men and one in fifty middle-aged women. Overall, there are an estimated 20 million Americans who have sleep apnea and many will show symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing, and wake up short of breath. OSA places a strain on your cardiovascular system and can lead to a heart attack or stroke among several other issues.

As for snoring, it’s estimated that ninety million American adults snore or about one in three over the age of 18. Snoring not related to other medical conditions such as OSA is known a “benign snoring” and does not pose a hazard to your health in itself.

To recap, there are 90 million snorers and 20 million people who have Obstructive Sleep Apnea, many who are also snorers. If you snore, how can you tell the difference between a potentially dangerous condition such as OSA and benign snoring?

Benign Snoring vs OSA

As mentioned, benign snoring is not an issue while sleep apnea is. Is there a way to tell if your snoring is just snoring or if it’s an indication of sleep apnea? Only a properly trained medical professional can determine the likelihood and ultimately diagnose sleep apnea through a test known as a sleep study. Your doctor may have you complete a questionnaire such as the STOP-BANG before deciding your risk for OSA and whether or not further testing is warranted.

There are several symptoms of sleep apnea that you should watch out for. If you experience some or all of the symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor who can further evaluate your situation.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Overweight- While not all with sleep apnea are overweight and not all who are overweight have sleep apnea, there is a definite correlation between the two. Excessive stored fat, particularly in the neck area, can cause the airway to close up and significantly reduce your ability to properly breathe while sleeping. Women with a neck measurement of 16″+ and men with a neck measurement of 17″+ are at higher risk. If you are overweight or obese, losing even 10-15 lbs can dramatically help with snoring and OSA.
• Loud snoring – You may be a habitual snorer and not even know it. If you have a bed partner who often complains about your snoring, ask them how often you snore and how intense your snoring is. You may even want to record yourself at night to capture your snoring. There are several smartphone apps that will make this easy. Sleep apnea sufferers will often snore loudly and throughout the night. Snoring can even become so loud that it can be heard through the walls.
• Pauses in breathing- Does your partner tell you that you often stop breathing while asleep? Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing while asleep. These pauses may last for several seconds and often occur dozens of times every hour. When your breathing pauses due to a blocked airway, you will awaken from sleep to continue breathing. In most cases, you will not recall waking up several times throughout the night.
• Daytime tiredness- Are you tired throughout the day, although you slept for 7-8 hours at night? As mentioned before, sleep apnea causes pauses in breathing which will alert you to wake up throughout the night. When this happens, you never fall into a deep sleep which is required to rejuvenate your body for the next day. Constant daytime tiredness could be a strong indicator of sleep apnea, especially when experienced with some of the other mentioned symptoms.
• High blood pressure- If you have high blood pressure, there may be an underlying issue such as sleep apnea that is causing this. When you stop breathing during sleep, your blood pressure tends to spike and may remain high throughout the day.
• Irritability and moody- Have others noticed that you have become irritable or have mood swings? Perhaps you have noticed this as well and have never put any thought into it. Lack of quality sleep caused by sleep apnea can really wreak havoc on your body and affect your mood. Most of us are cranky when we do not get enough sleep. If we lack sleep on a nightly basis, you may notice an overall change in mood.
• Morning headaches- When breathing pauses during sleep, your blood oxygen levels rise and blood vessels expand. The expansion of blood vessels can cause headaches which may be noticeable when you wake.

Now that you know some of the symptoms of Sleep Apnea, if you suspect you may suffer from this condition, it’s important to contact your doctor for a further evaluation. Luckily, for those with OSA, there are excellent treatment options available. Here are a few that you may want to consider.

Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Weight loss: If your sleep apnea is not too severe, your doctor may recommend that you lose some weight. Shedding a few pounds may be all that it takes to eliminate your sleep apnea. Unfortunately, apnea sufferers may find it difficult to lose weight because they constantly snack on high calorie, low nutrition food to energize them throughout the day. Being deprived of sleep will deprive you of energy and this can cause you to crave junk food which will make it near impossible to lose weight.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machine: The CPAP is often referred to as the “gold standard” in the medical sleep industry. In most cases when OSA is diagnosed, a CPAP machine is often prescribed. CPAP machines have come a long way and are more comfortable than ever. Unfortunately, CPAP compliance is rather low for a number of reasons, mostly because the patient doesn’t find the right combination of machine, mask, and humidity level.

Nasal Vents: A relatively new product that has quickly become popular are nasal vents such as the Provent. These are small flexible disks that almost resemble band-aids. They attach to the nose using an adhesive back and are disposed of each morning. Provent harvests the power of your own breathing to hold your airway open and prevent Apnea. Such products should only be prescribed by your doctor. Advantages of nasal vents are that they are compact, easy to use, and disposable. They also have a low up-front cost in comparison to a CPAP machine which can cost several thousands of dollars.

Mandibular Advancement Device MAD: The MAD is a preferred choice for many.  It’s fairly effective and can also be an affordable alternative treatment option for sleep apnea. These simple devices are inserted into the mouth and hold the jaw forward which tightens the airway and prevents it from collapsing. Mandibular Advancement Devices have been around for several decades but have only recently become quite popular thanks to their related product often referred to as a “snoring mouthpiece” which is used to prevent benign snoring. There are several distinct advantages that MAD’s have over traditional treatment options such as the CPAP. Perhaps one of its greatest features is that it is compact and does not require electricity to use. This is an important consideration for those who tend to travel frequently and don’t want to haul around a large machine and mask with them. Oral appliances fit in the palm of your hand and require very little maintenance. Custom fit MAD’s from your dentist will provide the maximum amount of comfort and generally last several years. Self-fitted mouthpieces are less expensive in comparison to the custom fit but do have one disadvantage which is they are not fitted and monitored by your dentist so you are unable to determine their effectiveness.

Surgery: There are a number of different surgery options for snoring, however, these are often not recommended as a first treatment option for OSA because they are not nearly as effective as alternative treatments and can often cause complications. The pillar procedure is a popular choice in snoring surgery. Implants are placed into the soft palate which causes scar tissue to form. The scar tissue becomes hard and prevents the soft palate from flapping around in the airway. Such surgeries should be considered on an individual basis and are not for everyone.

Snoring Can Be Deadly

It’s important to consider that snoring by itself is not deadly but rather when snoring is caused by a breathing obstruction such as obstructive sleep apnea. It’s estimated that 80% of those who have sleep apnea are currently untreated.  If you suspect that you may have OSA, don’t guess if you have this dangerous condition. Speak with your doctor who can properly diagnose your symptoms.

When Snoring is Simply “Snoring”

In many cases, snoring is simply benign snoring and is harmless with the exception of the damage that it can do to relationships. Where snoring is simply, well snoring, there are a number of snoring solutions out there that can help. One of the most effective solutions is the snoring mouthpiece which functions using the same concept as the mandibular advancement devices that are prescribed by your doctor.

Snoring mouthpieces can be fitted at home using boil and bite technology. They usually cost between $50-$100 and are very effective, as I have found out. There are a number of different options to choose from, some better than others. Here’s a list of products that I have tested and reviewed.

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Why you snore during pregnancy

Many pregnant women experience snoring during their late stages of pregnancy.  It is common that women who were never snorers before pregnancy can experience pregnant snoring.  In fact, snoring occurs in nearly half of all women during pregnancy.  This is commonly seen towards the end of the second trimester and during the third trimester.  Some women may not show signs of snoring at all during their first and second trimesters, however later develop snoring issues in the third trimester.  There are several factors listed below that may trigger pregnancy snoring.

Weight Gain

Snoring during pregnancy can be caused by simply gaining weight during your second and third trimesters.  As you gain weight, fat deposits can accumulate in the neck and throat areas which can actually narrow your airway and block the passage of air.  The air then vibrates off the soft tissues in your neck down the blocked airway which causes the sound of snoring.  You should always check with your doctor to ensure you are gaining a safe amount of weight during pregnancy.  If you are gaining too much, it’s possible that you will experience pregnant snoring until you deliver.  Some may think that if you start snoring, you may never stop.  This isn’t exactly true. Once you start to lose your baby weight, you will most likely stop snoring, especially if you never snored before you got pregnant.

Fluid Retention

Retaining fluid and gaining water weight may also be the cause of pregnancy snoring.  Swelling is a normal side effect of pregnancy because your body is producing additional blood for the baby and you are drinking more fluid in general.  It’s common to retain fluid in your hands, legs, feet, and even in your face.  The extra water actually aids in expanding your body to accommodate the baby, so the tissues in your throat could soften even more than they already are and restrict the airflow when you sleep, thus causing snoring.

Changes in hormone levels

Watch out for this one!  There are several hormones that will impact your body during your pregnancy.  A few of these hormones include HCG, Progesterone, Estrogen, and Relaxin, among others.  The effects of these ever-changing hormones during pregnancy include inflammation, nausea, clumsiness, dizziness, and yes, even snoring.  Pregnancy snoring can be partially caused by changes in your hormones (mainly attributed to increased mucus or water retention as stated earlier.)

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes simply means becoming diabetic during pregnancy.  The diabetes is usually reversed once the baby is born, but in some cases, the mother could remain diabetic even after pregnancy.  It’s possible that pregnant snoring and gestational diabetes may go hand in hand.  Inadequate airflow and oxygen from blocked airways (from weight gain or inflammation) could activate your sympathetic nervous system, causing blood pressure to rise at night which increases the risk of diabetes and snoring.  If you snore before pregnancy, you will be at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy.  If you do not snore before you are pregnant, you many coincidentally develop gestational diabetes, which could then result in snoring.  Some say the two are linked and related, however, it’s possible they are not linked to each other at all.

Sleep Apnea

Another potential reason for snoring while pregnant is the development of obstructive sleep apnea before or during pregnancy.  Sleep apnea is a disorder that is distinguished by a series of pauses in breathing during sleep.  The pauses are usually followed by very loud snores as the body attempts to unblock the obstruction and resume normal breathing.  Sleep apnea can develop for several reasons including weight gain, enlarged tonsils, experiencing allergies, or a hereditary history.  If you think that your pregnant snoring is due to sleep apnea, you should ask your doctor to refer you for an overnight sleep study to determine if you do indeed have OSA.

The Impact of Pregnant Snoring and How to Avoid It

The University of Michigan did a study that suggested that 2 out of 3 of pregnant snorers were more likely to deliver babies below the tenth percentile and twice as likely to need a c-section for delivery.  Snoring and sleep apnea both cause inflammation and this alters the blood vessels going to the placenta, so fewer nutrients and blood get to the fetus which can significantly stunt growth.  Don’t freak out.  It’s going to be okay.  There are actually several methods to prevent and stop pregnancy snoring.

Decrease Caffeine Intake

Most pregnant women are urged to refrain from caffeinated beverages during pregnancy because it can impact the fetus, but it can also trigger pregnancy snoring as well.  Caffeine consumption can cause inflammation in the neck and throat.  This narrows your airway and can eventually cause snoring during the night.  Certain foods like dark chocolate and teas can have low amounts of caffeine that you wouldn’t expect were there.  Be sure to check all food labels to ensure they are caffeine-free.

Sleep With Your Head Elevated

Sleeping with your head elevated by at least 4 inches could prevent and reduce pregnancy snoring.  You can use a few extra pillows for the elevation or scoot up a bit towards the headboard and then put your pillows down to give you something to lean back on.  Elevating your head 4″-6″ should keep your tongue in place and keep it from slipping back and blocking your airway, which then causes the sound of snoring.

Sleep on your Side – Left is Best for Digestion

A great preventative way to not snore is to sleep on your side – and the left side is best.  The tongue and throat muscles relax when you sleep on your back; this causes a blocked airway and snoring.  By sleeping on your side, the muscles still relax, however, they do not cover the airway since you are on your side.  Studies show sleeping on your left side not only prevents snoring but is beneficial for your health overall.  It improves digestion and filters toxins and wastes more quickly.  This may be one of the simplest solutions to prevent pregnancy snoring.

Use a Snoring Mouthpiece or Nasal Strips

There are several over the counter and prescription based products available to stop pregnancy snoring.  Two common products are anti-snoring mouthpieces and nasal strips.  Both products are non-invasive, affordable, and easy to use.  Pregnancy snoring mouthpieces may require some molding to your mouth, but most products can be custom formed in the comfort of your own home.  The mouthpieces stop pregnancy snoring by holding your tongue in place so that it does not block the airway in the back of your throat which causes the sound of snoring.  Some recent studies show that you can take your mouthpiece to the delivery room with you and it can even help you during the pushing stage of labor.  I have personally reviewed dozens of pregnancy snoring mouthpieces and there is a lot to consider when choosing the right one.  I encourage you to visit this table which breaks down the pros and cons of each brand.

If you prefer to not have a device in your mouth during the night time, you can buy nasal strips to avoid pregnancy snoring.  The nasal strips open up your nasal passage so you can breathe through your nose better and not your mouth, which eliminates the cause of snoring.

Use a Humidifier at Bedtime

Some women experience allergies or congestion during their pregnancy and snoring may occur.  If you have a humidifier, it may help to treat pregnancy snoring in that the humid air can clear your nasal passage and allow you to breathe more comfortably through your nose.  The humidifier will be most effective during the dry winter season or during peak allergy seasons.

Watch your Calorie Intake

Work closely with your doctor to ensure that excess weight gain is not the cause of your snoring.  It is common for most adults to experience snoring after significant weight gain occurs.  If you do gain more than normal weight during pregnancy, you can try one of the recommended options above to stop snoring during your pregnancy.  Just remember, just because you snore during your pregnancy does not necessarily mean you will snore after you deliver the baby.  Most women lose their baby weight rather quickly and the snoring goes away with the weight loss.  There are several options to stop snoring even if it sticks around.

Oxygen Therapy to Treat OSA

Some pregnant women can develop obstructive sleep apnea before or during their pregnancy.  This is a medical condition where you physically stop breathing momentarily several times throughout the night.  This is not only harmful to your body but is also preventing airflow to the fetus. OSA should be treated with oxygen therapy and a CPAP machine.  A sleep study needs to be performed in order to diagnose sleep apnea so it’s best to work with your primary care provider to take the necessary steps to getting a sleep study referral.  There is a difference between just snoring, and having sleep apnea so it’s best for you and your baby to evaluate the severity of your snoring issue.

Do Not Use Tobacco, Drink Alcohol, or Take Sleeping Pills

You should not use tobacco or be around second-hand smoke during pregnancy.  Not only is smoking bad for the fetus but it can also be the cause of your snoring during pregnancy.  The same goes for drinking alcohol and taking sleeping pills, as the use of these products is more likely to narrow your airway in your throat, which will block the flow of air and increase your chance of snoring.

Avoid Heavy or Spicy Meals Before Bed

It’s best to lay off those spicy meals or anything really heavy for that matter before going to bed, as this can also be the culprit for your snoring.  Extremely spicy foods may cause inflammation in your mouth and throat which can block your airway and result in snoring.  You may want to consider raising your head with a few pillows at bedtime if you just ate a big meal, as this can also cause acid reflux if you lay down right away.

 

 

 

 

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Will a White Noise Machine Help With Snoring?

Sleeping next to a partner who snores is not only frustrating but may even cause you to lose sleep, placing a strain on your relationship. Snoring is an issue that affects an estimated 40% – 50% of the US population. It’s no wonder why anti-snoring products are a multi-billion dollar industry. As for solutions, there’s everything from dietary supplements to snoring mouthpieces, and then there’s the white noise machine.

White noise machines are not exactly cutting-edge technology. In fact, they have been used for decades to help not only those who deal with a snoring partner, but also to help remedy issues including tinnitus, covering traffic noise, help with relaxation, or to help babies fall asleep among several other uses.

The question is, can white noise therapy help to cancel out the sound of snoring? The answer greatly depends on the severity of your partner’s snoring. For mild snoring, a white noise machine may be all that it takes to find relief and get a good night’s rest. If their snoring is so so loud that it can be heard from several rooms away, you would have to adjust the volume of your machine to a level that would be too uncomfortable to sleep, making it ineffective.

Before going out and spending $50+ on a white noise machine just to determine if it’s an effective solution in your situation, you may want to consider using these items that you may have within your home which generate white noise at little to no cost. If you find that white noise effectively masks the sound of snoring, consider upgrading to a machine that allows you to adjust the sound frequency or even change to natural sounds such as rain, thunder, crashing ocean waves, songbirds, etc.

(Somewhat)Free Sources of White Noise

Ceiling Fan

Not only can a ceiling fan provide air circulation, cooling, and light, it also produces white noise. The hum of a ceiling fan and sometimes off-balance rocking can be a soothing source of white noise. The older and less expensive models produce the more white noise while the newer, more expensive models are typically not nearly as effective. While the sound of a ceiling fan can be somewhat faint, it may be just enough to mask your partners snoring and allow you to sleep undisturbed.

Television

An excellent source of white noise is your television. If you have a TV in your bedroom, give this a try. Tune your television to a channel that does not have a signal. Such channels typically show white/gray/black flashing dots which are often referred to as “snow”. Before going to bed, turn on the television to this station and increase the volume until the sound of their snoring is masked. Understand that adjusting the volume too loud may be counterproductive and actually keep you awake. The idea is to strike a balance and mask the sound of snoring so that it doesn’t become distracting and not being so loud that it keeps you awake.

There are of course a couple caveats to using a TV for white noise. The first issue that you may encounter is the presence of light. Most of us prefer to sleep in the dark and the light emitting from the TV screen could become an issue.

Another inherent issue with TV white noise is energy consumption. Depending on the type and size of your TV, it may consume 200+ watts of power per hour. Running a TV for 8 hours a night can become quite expensive when compared to alternative white noise sources.

Radio

Similar to a television, a radio can also produce soothing white noise. To achieve this, simply tune your radio to a station with no reception. Try this on both AM and FM frequencies as there’s a slight difference in sound. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level that helps to cancel out the sound of your partners snoring. Once again, don’t adjust the volume too loud as this will keep you awake.

The two advantages that radio has over television are that it doesn’t produce light and it’s very inexpensive to operate, costing only pennies per night.

Computer

A number of websites offer white noise sound generators. These sound generators are often free and allow you to adjust settings such as volume, intensity, and even the type of noise. There are several sites with excellent interfaces that work from your browser and are easy to use. All you need is a computer, internet connection, and a good set of speakers. After locating a site that you prefer and setting the sound to the desired level, be sure to turn off your monitor to save power and prevent distractions from the light.

While such sites offer an excellent alternative to a white noise machine, they do come with a few issues. Much like a television, your computer consumes a bit of power which can become expensive. Also, those who do not have unlimited data may find overage charges on their bill. Another disadvantage is that you may not have a computer in your bedroom, making running sound from another room difficult.

As mentioned, there are a number of websites that offer free white noise generators. To locate one, try searching for terms such as “white noise generator” or “white noise player”.

Smart Phone or Tablet App

A “smarter” alternative to using a computer is to use an app on your smartphone or a tablet. Like the desktop computer, there are several apps that can be downloaded, often at no charge. These apps are available for both Android and iOS. For improved performance, consider pairing your smartphone with a sound box using Bluetooth. This will provide better sound quality and will also allow you to place the speaker in any desired position around your bedroom.

Since such devices use very little power, these can be an affordable source of white noise.

The one disadvantage of using a smartphone is, of course, the consumption of data whether you are streaming through Wifi or your data plan, ensure that you are aware of how much data the app that you choose uses and what your data plan covers.

Buying a White Noise Machine

After giving these suggestions a try, you may discover that white noise helps to mask the sound of your partners snoring. If this is the case, it may be time to invest in a white noise machine.

When shopping for a machine, you will encounter an overwhelming number of choices.

One product that I really like is the Dohm Classic by Marpac. Marpac invented the white noise machine over 50 years ago and is still one of the most popular models out there.

The reason why I prefer the Dohm Classic is that it produces white noise using a fan instead of electronically with speakers. The sound is natural and very soothing and doesn’t have a detectable loop as you may experience with other electronic devices.

Check out my review on the Dohm Classic for more information.

When White Noise Doesn’t Work

After trying some or all of these ideas, you may find that nothing seems to drown out your partners snoring. When this occurs, you may be tempted to give earplugs a try. Unfortunately, earplugs may also prevent you from hearing your alarm clock in the morning or may prevent you from hearing the sound of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm which can be dangerous.

Perhaps instead of trying to mask the sound of your partners snoring, you can prevent it all together. While there are a number of different anti-snoring products on the market, I’ve found that the Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is quite effective and will allow both partners to sleep well.

A MAD costs less than $100 and is placed inside of the snorer’s mouth, gently holding the jaw forward. The forward positioning of the jaw opens up a restricted airway and prevents the sound of snoring. Instead of masking the issue, you can eliminate the source. Here’s an excellent comparison list of all snoring mouthpieces that are available.

There are of course a few precautions to take before using such a product. If your partner’s snoring is loud and they also experience pausing in their breathing, they may have a medical condition known as sleep apnea which should be diagnosed by a qualified medical professional.

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☆☆☆☆☆ 4.5 Star Rating

About the Smart Nora Snoring Solution

The Story Behind Smart Nora

Every product has a story behind it, including Smart Nora.

Behrouz Hariri, a gentleman from Toronto, Canada, is the co-founder of Smart Nora. He has a background in product design and consulting. Mr. Hariri accredits his father with coming up with the idea in order to solve his own snoring problem.

Taking his father’s idea to the next level, Hariri further developed the Smart Nora in his garage and tested it in bedrooms of friends and family. A few months later, he launched a Kickstarter campaign on October 14, 2015, in an effort to raise money for further product development. Not surprisingly, the campaign had reached 40% of its goal within the first day. A month later, on November 12th, Hariri had over 3,400 backers and raised over $800,000, making it one of the more successful Kickstarter campaigns.

While several factors come into play, the success of Hariri’s Kickstarter campaign may be attributed to the fact that an estimated 40% to 50% of adults deal with snoring on a nightly basis. Providing an innovative solution to a common problem and presenting an effective pitch video is a surefire way to realize success on Kickstarter.

While Smart Nora is a young company, it has already made several appearances in publications and television shows such as Reuters, NBC News, Wired, Maxim, Taxi, Business Insider, and Van Winkles among two dozen others.

What is Smart Nora?

The Smart Nora Smart Snoring Solution is an innovative anti-snoring device that’s unlike anything that is currently on the market such as mouthpieces, chinstraps, nose strips, nose clips, throat spray, herbal remedies, etc. In fact, with Smart Nora, you don’t wear, ingest or attach anything to your body.

It’s an inflatable device that you slide under your pillow and it’s controlled by a small inconspicuous cordless transmitter,  named a “pebble”,  that rests on your nightstand and detects snoring. Once snoring is detected, the pebble transmits a signal to the inflatable device under your pillow and a silent pump is activated. This pump inflates or deflates the air pouch inside of the pillow which slowly raises or lowers your head up to 2″ over the course of 30 seconds. Smart Nora continuously listens and makes adjustments by raising or lowering your head until snoring is no longer heard. This adjustment process is ongoing throughout the night which keeps your snoring under control.

The movement of your head is very gradual, allowing you to sleep undisturbed.

But How Does it Stop Snoring?

This device sounds very interesting but how does raising or lowering the head control snoring?

In order to understand how the Smart Nora works, it’s important to first have an understanding of exactly why we snore.

While there are numerous causes of snoring, the most common cause is a partial collapse of the airway. As we sleep, our body and muscles relax which cause the airway to become narrow. As air rushes past a narrow opening, loose fatty tissues begin to collide with each other, causing the sound of snoring. While this is the most common cause of snoring, there are other conditions such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or other airway abnormalities that may contribute to or cause snoring. A partially collapsed airway is, however, the most common cause of snoring.

Raising or lowering the head stimulates the airway muscles, causing them to tighten and prevent the collision of fatty tissues.

During the developmental stages, Hariri asked friends and family members to test the Smart Nora prototypes and to keep a sleep journal to document their experience. Hariri claims that his product was so successful that those testing it hesitantly returned the prototypes to him because they experienced such great results. While this is not scientific evidence, it’s certainly an indicator that it may provide relief to snorers.

The concept of such a product successfully preventing snoring seems plausible. After all, scientific evidence shows that mandibular advancement devices work by holding the jaw forward and tightening the muscles in the airway. While Smart Nora takes a different approach, it targets muscles in the same area. Could this be the next generation of noninvasive anti-snoring devices?

Battery Life And Charging

The base unit actually comes with a battery installed within the soft case which provides power to the base unit which lasts only one night when unplugged. The pebble will last for up to seven days when unplugged from the base. According to the manufacturer, charge time is about 3 hours for both the base and pebble. The manufacturer further suggests keeping the base permanently plugged in for regular use. Charging the pebble is easy – just plug it into the base using the provided USB cord.

Visit Smart Nora Website

How Much Does Smart Nora Cost?

So how much will you pay for the Smart Nora? When the Kickstarter campaign was initially launched in 2015, the first backers were able to pre-order theirs for $179. Today, they are priced at $299 with an occasional discount of $41, bringing the total to $259 with free shipping to both the US and Canada. International shipping is also available for an additional charge.

While a bit pricey, if Smart Nora is actually effective, it may be worth every penny.

Guarantees and Warranties

Smart Nora comes with a 1-year limited warranty that covers manufacturer defects as well as a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.  The warranty is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase and covers material and workmanship under “normal use”.

As for the 30-day guarantee, Smart Nora INC. will refund your full purchase price if you are not fully satisfied. In order to receive a refund, you must return the device to its original condition within 30 days of purchase.

The guaranty and warranty are two attractive selling points.

Can Smart Nora Be Used to Treat Sleep Apnea?

According to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately 18 million adults in American have Sleep apnea which requires treatment from devices such as a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine (CPAP).

Smart Nora’s terms and conditions specifically state that their products are designed to provide you with snoring relief and/or reduced sounds of snoring. They further explain that Smart Nora is not a medical device nor is it regulated or approved by the FDA.

Furthermore, their FAQ page reiterates that it’s a non-medical device. However, it can be used by those with sleep apnea to reduce snoring but it should not be used to replace physician-prescribed treatment.

iOS and Android App

While fully functional without an app, Smart Nora can sync with your smartphone to provide audio recordings of your snoring as well as other information on your sleeping habits such as the number of hours you slept, the number of times Smart Nora was activated, and the peak decibel level of your snoring. This valuable information can help you to track and better understand the effectiveness of the Smart Nora.

As for the App, they offer the iOS version while the Android App is currently under development and is expected to be released in the coming months once the first batch is sent out. Because iOS users are approximately 70% of their customer base, Smart Nora decided to develop the iOS first.

When Will I Receive My SmartNora?

A common question asked by those who have placed a pre-order is “When will I receive my Smart Nora?”.

When initially launched, the company anticipated the first ship date to be in early June 2016, just in time for Father’s day. However, according to updates provided on their blog, this date was pushed out further as they worked to fine-tune their product. They also spent some time traveling to China and Japan in search of factories to produce the components that are used to create the Smart Nora and ultimately a factory that can assemble the finished product.

As of September 26, 2016, they are in pre-production and have produced the first 100 units which are currently going through Engineer Validation Testing and Quality Assurance. They are also submitting for FCC and CE certification.

That being said, the company is anticipating the first batch to ship out in November 2016. Those who ordered recently can expect a ship date of January 2017. According to their website, the company anticipates their shipments to go out on time. UPDATE: Smart Nora is currently available for purchase at their online store.

My Personal Review of Smart Nora

So far, I have shared all the information that I have gathered about the Smart Nora. After hoping to try the Smart Nora for several months, I finally had the opportunity to do so.

Arrival, Unpacking, and Setup

The Smart Nora arrived nestled within a box and was surrounded by a bubble wrapped exterior sheathing to protect the retail packaging. After taking off the bottom of the retail packaging, I was able to remove the gray soft case box which contained all of the system components. The case was fairly compact, measuring 10″ x 7″ x 4.5″. My initial impression was that the Smart Nora was well packaged and if the packaging is an indicator of product quality and performance, my expectations were already high.

The following items were included inside of the box:

• A base unit which contains an air pump controller
• A pillow insert with tubing attached
• One power adapter with two plug converters for use in multiple countries
• One USB Cable
• One “Pebble” sensor
• An overhead mount with extra double-sided mounting tape
• An instruction manual

A few minutes after arrival I had received an email from Smart Nora which included 2-minute setup video. Although the instructional manual provided sufficient setup information, the setup video gave a quick overview of the setup process. After watching the video, I read over the instructional manual that came inside of the package. Combining what I learned from the video and from reading the instructions, here are the 10 steps that I used to set up my Nora:

1. Remove all items from the soft case (with the exception of the control pump which was clearly labeled “Don’t remove from soft-case”
2. Insert the clear tubing into the base unit
3. Plug the power source into the base unit and plug into the wall
4. Ensure that the Pillow height is set to “High” and power on the base unit using the power button
5. Connect the USB cable to the base unit and then to the pebble
6. Allow the pebble to charge until green light stops flashing which indicates a full charge
7. Place the pillow insert under a queen size pillow (20″X 30″), ensuring that the panel is centered
8. Once pebble is charged (mine took about an hour) Unlock it and power it on. A solid white light will appear at the bottom and top of the pebble.
9. Lay down and press the Bluetooth button. Your head should rise for 45 seconds and fall for 15 seconds.
10. Store the base under your bed and mount the pebble on your headboard.

Before putting to use, my curiosity got the best of me and I had to find out exactly how the Smart Nora worked. I noticed that inside the pillow insert sleeve there was a plastic bladder in which the air tube was connected to. The sleeve was mounted by two small pieces of velcro, so I removed it to take a closer look.

The air bladder actually turned out to have two chambers in which expanded and contracted like an accordion when activated. I put the air bladder back inside of the pillow insert and activated the pump by replicating the sound of snoring. It seemed to take about 3-4 “snores” to activate the pump which slowly inflated to raise a total of 3.75″. The action was very slow and the sound of the pump was virtually undetectable. Before trying the Smart Nora, one of my concerns was the pump being too loud. This concern was quickly put to rest after hearing the pump activate which barely made a sound.

After satisfying my curiosity, I continued setting up my unit. At first, I considered placing the pebble on my nightstand but noticed that their website suggested using the pebble mount because it made the Smart Nora twice as effective, so this is what I did. Measuring 4″ above where my head typically rests, I cleaned an area of my headboard with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth to ensure that the mount stuck to the surface. I peeled back the double sided tape and stuck it to my headboard and placed the pebble inside.

Once the pebble was set up, I read up on setting the pillow height and sensitivity. According to the instructions, for best results, the pillow should be set on “High”.

The instruction manual also gives suggestions on how to set the pebble sensitivity. There are five different sensitivity levels to choose from. The highest level of sensitivity should be used in a very quiet room and activates with a single quiet snore while when setting on the opposite end of the sensitivity spectrum (Very low sensitivity)  the Smart Smart Nora will activate with multiple snores under loud room conditions such as traffic or construction noise.  The recommended setting (Normal Sensitivity) activates with multiple snores under regular bedroom conditions. I decided to leave the sensitivity on the “normal” recommended setting and later adjust it if necessary.

With the Smart Nora set up and adjusted, I was excited to get started.

Putting Smart Nora to The Test

As with all anti-snoring products that I review, I always put them through two or more weeks of rigorous testing and provide raw unfiltered information on product performance to my readers. Although rather unscientific, I judge the effectiveness by both reports from my wife and snoring levels that were recorded on my smartphone. I use a baseline recording to compare my snoring before and after using an anti-snoring product. There are several apps that are available, some are free while others are fairly inexpensive.

First Night With Smart Nora

One nice feature offered by this the Smart Nora is a 30-minute delay. I had concerns that possibility of a pillow inflating and deflating while getting settled into bed would be distracting, so before going to bed I set the 30 min delay by pressing and holding the power button for a second which produced a white light that faded in and out, indicating that it was in delay mode. I’m usually asleep long before my wife so she’s my ears and eyes when it comes to determining if a snoring device works.

As usual, I fell asleep quickly with my wife by my side monitoring my snoring. Unfortunately, I started snoring several minutes prior to the expiration of the delayed start, so it did not kick in soon enough. Once the delayed start expired, my head almost immediately begins to rise as I was sound asleep and snoring loudly.

My head went up slowly and then dropped slowly. Amazingly, the slight movement of my head seemed to put the brakes on my snoring. My wife sat and watched my head rise and fall every few minutes which seemed time and time again to arrest my snoring. The first night was a success as my wife was not awoken or kept up by the sound of my snoring. The sound recording showed a few instances of brief snoring throughout the night that was short lived which prevented my snoring from escalating as it usually does throughout the night.

Days 2

I have to admit, I was pretty amazed by the results that I had experienced the first night so I was ready to see if the Smart Nora could stand the test of time.

Day 2 was a long day and I knew that I would fall asleep would not be a problem. Since I knew that I would fall asleep shortly after my head hit the pillow, I decided to give it a try without using the delay feature. I powered on the Smart Nora and the pillow started to inflate shortly after speaking a few words to my wife. I recall this happening once or twice before I was once again sound asleep.

My wife enjoys staying up at night reading, so she was able to monitor my snoring for at least a couple hours prior to going to sleep. The results of the second night were similar to the first night. No complaints from my wife and faint occasional snoring sounds were heard and later record which were quickly silenced by the raising and lowering of the pillow.

It seems as though the Smart Nora survived another night of testing. Moving forward, let’s see how it held up to the remaining 12 days.

Days 3-14

The next few days were similar to the first two. Some nights I would use the 30-minute delay, while other days I would not. The choice to use it or not greatly depended on my level of tiredness and my best estimate of how soon I would fall asleep. By the end of the 14-day trial, I decided that setting the 30 min delay is likely the best choice, although until the Nora kicked in, my snoring sometimes annoyed my wife.

Around midway through the testing period I decided to try increasing the sensitivity level of the pebble from “normal” to the next level higher just to test the limits and see if I could silence the snoring faster. Unfortunately, the increase in sensitivity was too much and the pillow spent most of the night activated by the slightest sound. I ended up returning the sensitivity back to “normal”.

We did, however, note that during this period of time we discovered the pillow would inadvertently activate when my wife would watch TV in bed. Luckily we have a pair of headphones which solved this problem.

Not surprising, the same results continued night after night. Any snoring that did occur was quickly silenced and was quiet enough not to wake my wife.

By day 9 I had received an email from Nora informing me that I had been assigned a “sleep coach” who would help to answer any questions that I may have. By this point, I was already familiar with the using the Smart Nora and was experiencing satisfactory results, so I did not have to use this service (sorry Sean).

Using The App

While I own a few apps that I have used to record my snoring, I was excited to test out the one offered by Smart Nora. Unfortunately, they still haven’t released this app although their website shows that the iOS version should soon be released followed by the Android version.

Concluding Thoughts and Recommendation

Smart Nora is an innovative snoring solution that is unlike anything that I have ever tested. I was very curious about this product and am glad that I gave it a try.

The key features that I really like are the fact that it’s non-invasive, works instantly, and it uses a silent pump. While it doesn’t completely eliminate all snoring sounds, it stops the snoring quickly which prevented it from escalating to a level that keeps my wife awake at night. My wife was satisfied with the results and the sound recording verified a definite reduction in the amount and intensity of my snoring.

If you are interested in a high-tech, non-invasive snoring solution, I would highly recommend the Smart Nora.

Visit Smart Nora Website

Pros:

• Completely non-invasive snoring solution
• Very easy to set up
• Works immediately with a short adjustment period
• Can be used with your favorite pillow
• Offered with a 30-day guarantee
• 365 day limited warranty
• Battery powered pump and pebble allow use when power is temporarily not available

Cons: 

• More of a reactive solution rather than proactive

 

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☆☆☆☆☆ 4 Star Rating

About The Silent Treatment

Michael and Shelley Rowarth are the owners of Rowarth Design Ltd., the parent company of The Silent Treatment that is based out of Auckland, New Zealand. Like many couples, Michael and Shelley experienced difficulty sleeping due to Michael’s snoring problem back in the 1970’s. Shelley was frustrated and tired of countless and restless nights of hearing Michael snore through the night. She urged Michael to use an anti-snore device to help stop his snoring. After trying several products on the market that were ineffective and expensive, Michael decided to put his extensive background in product engineering, manufacturing, and design to the test. He invested in a 3D printer and worked with over 100 prototypes before perfecting The Silent Treatment and launching it in 2014. Shelley is thrilled to have her rest back and Michael continues to tweak the Silent Treatment design to this day in order to perfect the fit and comfort for his customers.

The Silent Treatment is indeed a boil and bite fitted tongue stabilizing device (TSD). These devices are great because they hold your tongue in a natural forward position in order to prevent the tongue from blocking your airway and causing snoring. Many people prefer TSD’s because they do not strain your jaw and have little to no effect on the movement of your teeth. You may still feel some discomfort for the first few nights after wearing any anti-snoring device. Your body simply needs to adapt to the new position of your tongue, but you will get used to having a device in your mouth eventually. The Silent Treatment differs from mandibular advancement devices (MAD’s) in that the device does not force your jaw forward by using your teeth as leverage. The Silent Treatment simply uses your teeth as a means to stabilize and flatten your tongue, and not affecting the position of your jaw. Located at the bottom of the device, are hundreds of tiny non-invasive spurs that will cling to the top of the tongue and hold it in a forward position.

Price

The Silent Treatment is listed at a reasonable price of $62 with free shipping via International Air Post. Since the product is being shipped from New Zealand, it can take anywhere from 7-15 days to receive the Silent Treatment. Expedited shipping is also available at checkout if you are looking to receive your product in a more timely manner. Canadian buyers are urged to pay for additional expedited shipping since packages are being held up at Canadian customs for as long as 7 weeks. Purchases can be made through their website or over the phone.

What is it made of?

The Silent Treatment is constructed of a soft food-grade polypropylene material that is non-toxic and BPA-free. This is good to know since this material will be exposed to boiling water and then immediately inserted into your mouth. The actual device has a central frame with 2 side wings made of injection molded soft thermoplastic material that has a high melting point. A secondary low melting point material is located on the top of the wings and is the area where your teeth will be molded into the material.

Silent Treatment Warranty

Michael and Shelley are committed to providing excellent customer service to their customers and extend a lifetime warranty with their product. They understand that this product may not be for everyone and that it may take time to getting used to it. They offer exceptional customer support by working through any problems that customers may have with their molding, fitting, or general use. If at any time, they cannot work with the customer on an issue, they are happy to refund the customer the full purchase amount. This is a rarity in the industry these days – most manufacturers in the anti-snoring market offer a 30-day money back guarantee or 30-day trial period. This goes to show that the company stands behind their product 100% and are loyal to their customers.

My Experience

The Silent Treatment shipped to my doorstep and arrived packaged in a small box.  The moldable device was located inside a storage case along with a metal fitting clip, and instructions.

After reading all of the instructions, I proceeded to the kitchen to start boiling some water. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooking pot
• Water
• Cooking/grilling tongs
• Stopwatch
• Silent Treatment
• Instructions
• Included Storage Container
  (Grab some cooking tongs while you are in the kitchen and set them aside. Have a watch handy or your phone nearby to set a timer when you are ready to boil the Silent Treatment.)

I poured a few cups of water into a pot and turned the stove on medium heat. While the water was starting to warm, I took the device out of the plastic packaging and went into the bathroom to practice inserting the device into my mouth as the instructions say to do. Be sure that the spurs are facing downwards (The curved edge will be facing forward as you place it in your mouth.) I placed the device in my mouth so that the very front of the piece rested in line with my lower canine teeth. I noticed that it seemed a bit wide for my mouth. The manufacturer suggests using the included stainless steel fitting clip if you have a V-shaped or smaller mouth. I fitted the clip onto the piece like the instructions showed and were able to bend the front part of the mouthpiece so it formed a smaller V-shape. Once I did this, I practiced inserting the piece into my mouth a few times until I felt confident enough that I could mold the device correctly.

After proceeding back into the kitchen and seeing that my water had already come to a boil, I dropped the Silent Treatment into the water and set my phone timer for 1 minute. I continued to maintain the boil for the entire minute the Silent Treatment was submerged. Once my timer went off, I grabbed my tongs and carefully picked up the device while being careful not to touch the side bulbs that would soon be molded. At this time, I removed the fitting clip and cooled it off by blowing on it for a few seconds, touching it to the back side of my hand to be sure it wasn’t scolding hot before I placed it in my mouth. I walked back to the bathroom mirror and inserted the Silent Treatment in my mouth just as I had practiced. While holding my lower jaw forward, I made sure my bite was firm yet gentle enough as to not completely bite through and have my top and bottom teeth touch. I waited for a minute or so until the device cooled down and then removed it from my mouth and ran it under cool water. I allowed it to dry and placed it in the storage container that was included in my box and stored it on my nightstand ready for the approaching evening’s use.

Right before I was about to go to bed, I reached over on my nightstand and grabbed the Silent Treatment from its storage case. I inserted it into my mouth the same way I had molded it earlier that day. The instructions said to slightly extend my tongue forward from its relaxed position, so I did that as the Silent Treatment entered my mouth. I could feel the bottom of the piece (the spurs) put slight pressure on my tongue to hold it in place – so I knew it was working. It was a bit awkward at first having something in my mouth as I went to bed. It reminded me of my brace and retainer days back in my teen years. I knew it would take some time getting used to just like those braces did. I tried not to think about this mouthpiece before going to sleep but I have to admit that it did take me an extra hour or so to finally fall asleep. I experienced extra salivation than I normally noticed as well. These put aside, I soon found myself sound asleep.

Results

I woke up the next morning and noticed that a bit of drooling had occurred. As a long-time user and reviewer, I knew that this was typical of any mouthpiece that you use. After my first night of using a new mouthpiece, I always give the product the “wife test”. I asked my wife that morning if she heard any snoring during the previous night and she could not recall hearing anything. That’s all I needed to hear to call this product a success.

I continued to wear the Silent Treatment for 13 more nights and noticed that the drooling I experienced during the first night had gradually gone away. The only discomfort I can really mention is the fact that you have a device in your mouth, to begin with. This affected me the first few nights of wearing the Silent Treatment, but by night 3 or so, I was already used to having it in my mouth and it wasn’t a big deal anymore.

Pros

• Affordable
• Effective
• Adjustable Fitting Size Settings
• Easy to Mold
• Includes storage case
• Shipping is Free
• Money-Back Guarantee

Cons

• May take several days to get used to a device in your mouth
• May cause you drooling

All in all, I would recommend this product. I have only reviewed a handful of tongue stabilizing devices, and I think they are a great alternative to mandibular advancement devices if you are concerned about holding your jaw forward. There are some great anti-snoring devices out on the market and I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing quite a few of them. Feel free to read through my other reviews and learn about my recommended devices.

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