Do people who snore while sleeping not hear their own snoring? Scientists have sought to find the answer.
Anyone who has been awakened by someone else’s snoring knows just how loud and annoying those sounds can be, especially when the person snoring is sleeping peacefully.
So, do snorers hear their own snoring, or do they possess some ability that makes them “immune” to the sound of their own snoring?
Are you disturbed by the sound of your own snoring? (Illustration: BSIP SA/Alarmy).
Interestingly, both statements are true.
According to Professor and Doctor Anita Shelgikar from the University of Michigan, snorers are unaware that they are snoring, regardless of the intensity and frequency of their snoring. This is because everyone has a different threshold for being aroused, or they have a tendency to remain undisturbed while sleeping. Depending on the individual, some types or levels of noise may be more bothersome than others.
However, a person can also wake up due to their own snoring, and this can vary from night to night. The impact of noise on sleep depends on many factors, such as the intensity of the noise, the type of noise, each person’s sensitivity, and other environmental factors. For some people, whispers or soft music can still disrupt their sleep.
Another factor that influences whether a snorer is aware of their own snoring is REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement sleep).
Some studies show that the threshold for waking in REM sleep is lower than in NREM sleep (Non-Rapid Eye Movement sleep). Many people snore more loudly and frequently during REM sleep. Therefore, some individuals may hear and be awakened by their own snoring during this phase.
Recent studies have introduced a method called “phase-based sound stimulation.” This is a sound protocol designed to enhance the duration of slow-wave sleep, also known as deep sleep.
Snoring occurs when air cannot flow freely through the nose and mouth.
Occasional snoring is generally not a cause for concern, apart from being a bit noisy and potentially disturbing others. However, someone who snores due to conditions such as sleep apnea may face an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
Therefore, monitoring sleep and snoring levels is essential, especially for older adults.
