Blocked nose to loud snoring: ENT surgeon on everything you need to know about nasal polyps, suggests easy tips to sleep better

How to stop snoring: Experts suggest maintaining an optimum body weight helps reduce airway narrowing and can significantly lessen snoring episodes at night (Image: Canva)

• Blocked nose often leads to snoring due to mouth breathing.
• Nasal polyps are typically benign and treated with medication.
• Side-sleeping and hydration can help reduce snoring.

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A blocked nose is among the most common reasons people begin to snore. When nasal passages are obstructed, whether by allergies, sinus trouble, or a deviated septum, the body turns to mouth breathing during sleep. That shift, experts say, causes the soft tissues of the throat to vibrate more intensely.

“Snoring is often the body’s signal that the airway is struggling to function smoothly during sleep,” Dr Neha Pangam, Consultant ENT surgeon at AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, tells Moneycontrol. “When the nose is blocked, breathing patterns change, and the throat tissues vibrate more, producing the familiar snoring sound,” she adds.

For many people, the mention of nasal polyps sparks unnecessary worry. Specialists, however, insist that several common beliefs about them are misleading. “Nasal polyps are usually benign growths inside the nasal lining. People often panic thinking they are cancerous, but in most cases they are not. With the right treatment and guidance, they can be managed effectively," says Dr Pangam.

Also read | Your bed could be hiding the biggest causes of snoring, but help could be hidden in the freezer

Another misconception is that infections alone cause polyps. In reality, they are frequently linked with allergies, asthma, and long-term inflammation of the nasal passages. “Many patients assume surgery is the only option,” Dr Pangam says, adding, “However, a large number of cases respond well to medicines and nasal sprays prescribed by doctors.”

How to breathe better

Dr Pangam shares simple lifestyle tweaks that help breathing.

Maintain a healthy weight

Carrying excess weight can put pressure on the airway and worsen breathing during sleep. Doctors say maintaining an optimum body weight helps reduce airway narrowing and can significantly lessen snoring episodes at night.

Sleep on your side

Sleeping flat on the backallows the tongue and throat tissues to fall backwards, narrowing the airway. Switching to a side-sleeping position keeps the airway more open and often reduces the intensity of snoring.

Also read | Snoring and sleep apnea: Difference between the two, symptoms, causes, treatment options

Keep the bedroom dust-free

Dust, mites, and allergens in bedding or carpets can irritate the nasal lining and worsen congestion. Keeping bedrooms clean and well ventilated helps prevent allergic flare-ups that contribute to nasal blockage.

Stay hydrated and avoid irritants

Drinking adequate water keeps nasal passages moist and less irritated. Experts also advise avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol before bedtime, as both can inflame airways and worsen snoring.

How to manage nasal polyps and ease symptoms

Medical care plays a key role in tackling nasal polyps and related congestion. According to Dr Pangam, prescribed nasal steroid sprays are often the first line of treatment as they help shrink polyps and reduce swelling. Saline nasal rinses can also offer relief by clearing mucus, soothing inflamed passages, and improving airflow.

“Treating sinus infections promptly and following medical advice is essential. Early management can improve breathing, reduce snoring, and restore restful sleep,” she says.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.