Remember the days when you would kiss each other good night and then turn in for a great night's sleep? Maybe those days are behind you because, even if you don't realize it yourself, you snore. Your children might even be teasing you in a good-natured way, and things might have gotten to the point that your spouse has given you a gentle ultimatum. That ultimatum might be for you to get help or one of you would be sleeping in another room.

Who would have thought that simply breathing could come out as such loud snoring? Before you ask for outside help, think of doing some things on your own.

• If you've recently gained weight, losing it might help with your snoring problem.
• Are you drinking too many cups of coffee and lots of caffeinated sodas? Too much caffeine might even be the reason you are snoring.
• Maybe you sleep on your back. Try sleeping on your side to see if the snoring will stop. Ask your spouse to remind you to turn over if he or she hears you snoring.
• Allergies might even be the reason that you are snoring. Try taking an over-the-counter allergy medicine to see if that will help.

If you've tried everything you can think of and you are still snoring, maybe it's time to get professional help. Start by seeing your family doctor to see if he or she can help you. Your family doctor might refer you to a sleep apnea doctor where clinical treatments will be performed to determine the severity of your snoring problem. The staff at the sleep center will have the experience to determine what the problem is and what needs to happen to help it stop.

A face or nasal mask, also known as a CPAP, might be prescribed. Even though the mask can be uncomfortable at first, don't give up. Soon it will just be part of your night routine and you'll hardly know that it's in place. If the CPAP doesn't work, a sleep device that fits on the bite of your mouth might be recommended. This device is affordable and easy to use. In addition, it will eventually be a lot more comfortable to wear.

You will probably be asked to go back for several sessions at the sleep center so that a correct diagnosis can be attained. Even though that might not be convenient, it will be worth every minute spent there when you and your spouse finally get to sleep soundly.