Snoring is often poked fun at and laughed about but for many people snoring is no laughing matter. The spouse who hasn't been able to get a good night's sleep in months probably isn't laughing. Neither is the person snoring who awakens to an empty bed, another figure in a statistic that suggests that 80% of couples end up sleeping in separate rooms because of one's snoring.

Approximately 45% of adults snore. 25% of that number claims that their snoring is habitual and considers snoring a major problem in their life. Snoring can be embarrassing and it can also strain a relationship. Snoring can also be attributed to a potentially fatal sleep disorder known as sleep apnea.

People with apnea will momentarily stop breathing while they are asleep. Apnea sufferers are said to be more prone to heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and sudden death. Worst yet, not only is snoring a symptom of sleep apnea but there is some suggestion that untreated snoring can actually cause sleep apnea!

Each day people are turning to books and online resources for snoring cures. The good news is that once you've consulted with a physician, who has ruled out a serious condition like sleep apnea, snoring cures are relatively simple, inexpensive and readily available. It just may take some experimentation to determine what snoring cures work best for your particular case. Results will vary from individual to individual but effective snoring remedies don't require prescription medications. There are some relatively simple and effective snoring cures right around the corner at your local drugstore.

For instance, snoring relief can sometimes come in the form of a good humidifier or warm mist vaporizer. These are great for putting moisture back into the air. Particularly during dry months since a dry nose will likely be accompanied at night by snoring. Some people notice snoring being more of an issue during the wintertime when the air is dryer.

Vaporizers have gained popularity in recent years as an effective cure for snoring.  A vaporizer will let you use herbal snoring cures, essential oils like Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Anise and Lavender that promote relaxation and help keep nasal passages clear and your throat coated.

Anything that helps your nose and throat will likely be effective in treating snoring. Snoring is often the result of blockages in the nasal passages, a deviated septum for example, or enlarged tonsils, enlarged adenoids, a thick soft palate, and a swollen uvula Allergies are a common culprit. Whatever the cause is, the tissues in the back of the throat are now more likely to vibrate as we sleep, resulting in snoring.

Nasal strips, just like you see worn by popular athletes during sporting events, can also be an effective remedy for snoring. Yeah, they look funny but it's bedtime and you can cast aside your vanity for the sake of a restful sleep for both you and whoever shares a bed with you.

Nasal strips, available at any drug store, work by lifting the sides of the nose and increasing airflow. When someone has clogged sinuses they are more likely to breath out of their mouth, especially during sleep, resulting in snoring. So anything that opens nasal packages should help.

The use of a decongestant as a snoring remedy is generally frowned upon. Medications and sedatives -- ranging from sleeping pills, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety drugs, muscle relaxers and even alcohol -- may actually promote snoring.

To help relieve issues from allergens like mold, dust, pet hair, etc. It is suggested that you make a habit out of routinely changed bedspreads, sheets and pillowcases. You should also vacuum the floor frequently.

Sleep position is also crucial. Sleeping flat on your back is strongly discouraged if you have a problem with snoring. Your tongue will fall backwards into your throat and further hinder airflow.

Try using a few extra pillows to keep your head elevated while you sleep. It is sometimes suggested that you manually raise the head of the bed by four inches. Placing blocks, wedges, flat boards or old books underneath the legs at the top of the bed can accomplish this.

One of the best cures for snoring is to just take better care of yourself. Overweight people tend to have a lot of issues with snoring. Extra body weight can suppress the respiratory system and reduce airflow. Throat tissues become flabbier, lose firmness and end up vibrating as we sleep, causing the sound of snoring. It is often said that losing roughly 10% of your body weight will make a difference with snoring.

Regular exercise during the day can also be a cure for snoring. The tie-in between cardiovascular health and snoring is pretty logical. Better breathing and overall health will limit snoring.

It is also recommended that you quit smoking or at least refrain from smoking three to four hours before bedtime. Tobacco smoke has irritants that can swell throat tissues and cause snoring.

So, when it comes to snoring, just remember that you aren't alone.  And keep the faith because there are many snoring cures out there. Sure, the results will vary from individual to individual but these snoring cures are inexpensive, not very complicated and definitely worth a try!