By far, the majority of snorers can be helped. For adults who are mild or occasional snorers, the following self-help remedies are worth trying:

·        Exercise daily to develop good muscle tone and lose weight.

·        Avoid tranquilizers, sleeping pills and antihistamines before bedtime.

·        Avoid alcoholic beverages within three hours of retiring.

·        Avoid heavy meals within three hours of retiring.

·        Avoid getting overtired. Establish regular sleeping patterns.

·        Sleep on your side rather than on your back.

·        Raise the entire bed with the head upwards.

·        Allow the non-snorers to get to sleep first.

When snoring becomes disruptive to the life of the snorer's family, medical advice should be sought, especially if other household members suspect the obstructive sleep apnea problem. Heavy snorers deserve a thorough examination of the nose, mouth, palate, throat and neck. Studies in a sleep laboratory are sometimes indicated. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis. It may be as simple as managing a nasal allergy or infection, surgically correcting a nasal deformity or removing tonsils and adenoids. The snoring may respond best to surgery on the throat and palate to tighten up flabby tissues and expand the air passages. This operation is called the "uvulopalatopharyngoplasty" or UPPP. Surgery may be covered by insurance if associated with obstructive sleep apnea. Emergency cases of obstructive sleep apnea might require a tracheotomy (an opening which creates an opening into the windpipe).

Children who snore frequently should also be examined. Medical evidence suggests the tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy may make an important difference in the health and well being of the child.

Snoring means obstructed breathing. Obstruction can be serious. It is not funny and it is definitely not hopeless.