Final answer:
Snoring is most frequent in males and worsens with age, and factors like pollution and stress can exacerbate the symptoms of sleep apnea, a related respiratory disorder.
Step-by-step explanation:
Snoring occurs most frequently in males and becomes worse with age. Risk factors enhancing the occurrence of snoring and sleep apnea include being overweight, smoking, alcohol consumption, use of tranquilizers, and muscle relaxants. Obesity contributes to snoring by increasing adipose tissue in the neck, pushing soft tissues towards the airway, causing narrowing and increased resistance.
Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, often due to physical blockage of airflow. Factors such as sleeping on one's back can increase the risk of airway obstruction. Symptoms of sleep apnea, which include excessive snoring, can be exacerbated by pollution, stress, respiratory infections, exposure to cold air, and other factors. Symptoms are typically worse at night and early in the morning and can lead to serious health consequences if not addressed.