Eli5 – how can people not snore laying down while awake but then snore as soon as they fall asleep

Question

I know head position and all that affects snoring but how can someone be awake and laying down and not snore, but then fall asleep in the same position and then start snoring

In: 79

Answer 1

Snoring is the result of an obstruction in the airways that causes the tissues in the throat to vibrate as air passes through them. When a person is awake, they are typically able to maintain muscle tone in their throat and keep their airways open, which prevents snoring. However, when a person falls asleep, their muscles relax, including the muscles in their throat. This can cause the airways to narrow or become obstructed, leading to snoring. Some people may be more prone to snoring due to factors such as their weight, age, or the shape of their airways, which can make them more likely to snore when they are asleep.