According to Mayoclinic.com, snoring is caused by an obstruction while breathing that creates a hoarse sound while sleeping. A common cause of snoring is sinus complications that prevent someone from breathing normally. Sinus snoring is caused by sinus conditions such as nasal polyps, a deviated septum, sinus infections and allergic rhinitis. Each of these conditions can cause compromise in a person's breathing, which leads to sinus snoring during sleep.
Nasal Polyps
According to the American Rhinologic Society, nasal polyps are noncancerous growths that develop in the sinus cavity and nose. People with allergies or asthma are more likely to develop nasal polyps. Nasal polyps need to be assessed by an allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Most polyps are small and harmless, but can cause sinus snoring. In extreme cases, nasal polyps can completely obstruct the nasal passages and cause facial deformities. Sinus surgery is needed in these severe cases.
Deviated Septum
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, a deviated septum is a condition in which the center bone in the nose is crooked. This is because of developmental complications or the result of a facial injury. The crooked bone causes difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils, and can lead to recurring sinus infections. The only cure for deviated septum-related sinus snoring is sinus surgery.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection is the inflammation of the sinus cavities, according to Familydoctor.org. Sinus infections are caused by colds, allergies or nasal deformities. The sinus cavity becomes swollen due to a bacteria or virus and traps mucus in the sinuses. The inflammation can cause sinus pain pressure, severe congestion and postnasal drip. The lack of ability to breathe leads to sinus snoring while sleeping. Common treatments for sinus infections are over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers.
Allergic Rhinitis
According to Medline Plus, allergic rhinitis is "a collection of symptoms, mostly in the nose and eyes, which occur when you breathe in something you are allergic to, such as dust, dander, or pollen." The allergen produces common allergic reaction symptoms such as nasal discharge, sinus inflammation and postnasal drip. The most effective treatment for this condition is to identify the allergen triggers and avoid them. Allergic rhinitis is also treated with antihistamine drugs, the use of nasal irrigation and decongestants. Once the condition is cured, sinus snoring should subside.
