While a lot of people think of snoring as than something funny and something that only affects the person who snores, snoring it has been known to hurt and destroy relationships.

Yes, it can simply be a minor annoyance for the spouse or significant other, however it could also be a serious problem that is both a real health problem for the snorer and a serious problem for the spouse, significant other, or even the household members of the snorer.

The sleeping partner of the snorer can have their sleeping pattern significantly affected as a result of the snoring. If this were short term, there would likely be no problem and while up to 50% of the population is likely to snore a little at one time or another, approximately 30% - 35% of people are habitual snorers and may snore every night.

By the way, it is thought that many more men snore than do women. However some sleep experts think that men sleep more soundly than women, and are less likely to be disturbed by the snoring of their spouse or significant other.

Load snoring often causes sleep deprivation in the spouse or significant other of the snorer, especially in light sleepers, and this sleep deprivation often causes problems throughout the day.

This often results in frustration, anger and even hostility, sleep deprivation can also create physicall illnesses, and over time may lead to seperations and even divorces.

The problem with snoring is that the snorer may be causing the problem by being overweight, drinking alcohol, taking certain medications, smoking, etc., but the snoring may also be serious.

Hopefully a snorer has a patient spouse or significant other who will not, because of their frustration or anger, rush to a separation or divorce, and will help the snorer identify what type of snorer they are and encourage them to solve the problem.

* It may be that the snorer is overweight and along with exercising and altering their diet could lose weight and even stop snoring. Being overweight is the BIGGEST cause of snoring!

* Maybe they snore when they drink alcohol at night and if that is the case, they could stop drinking, cut back on the amount they drink or at least stop drinking 4-6 hours before going to bed.

* Sleeping on their backs may be the problem. They could start sleeping on their sides and try this 'trick', sew or pin a sock to the back side of their night shirt, in the middle of their back, and put a small hard ball, i.e. a golf ball, or even a walnut, in the sock. This will help them stay off their backs.

If the snoring problem is not solved with these suggestions, definitely see your doctor (the snorer that is) as snoring is not only a nuisance; it can be a dangerous condition, especially if it is accompanied by sleep apnea, a seious condition where the snorer actually stops breathing dozen of time, even hundreds of times, each night.

If your doctor talks with you and sleep apnea is suspected they will refer you to a sleep clinic, where you actually spend the night under the watchful eye of doctors and sleep specialists.

Suggestions For The Partner or a Snorer

No matter how much you care about them, if the love of your life is a snorer you are going to have to take steps to protect yourself from sleep deficit and the problems it creates.

* Get some earplugs. Soft foam ear plugs may be able to help if you sleep with a snorer and can often mean the difference between having a good night's sleep. I know this sounds 'funny', but it may help.

* Take time to unwind before bedtime, so that you fall asleep faster.

* Don't allow pets in the bedroom

* Consider having a light protein based snack before bedtime

* Exercise every day - if you have an active job this is not necessary but it is very important if you sit at a desk all day.

* Avoid napping during the day. Keep going and go to sleep early if necessary.

* Reduce your fluid intake a couple of hours before bedtime to reduce the likelihood of waking to go to the bathroom during the night

* Ensure you eat a nutrient rich diet, supplementing with a good quality multi vitamin and mineral if necessary

* Consider sleeping in another room, at least on some nights of the week, if the situation becomes unbearable

If you have decided to stick it out and help your spouse or significant other sovle their snoring problem, great, but sometimes you need to take care of yourself.