When people think about snoring, they usually imagine the person making the noise.
Ironically, that isn't always the person who suffers the most.
For many couples, the partner lying awake next to the snorer experiences the greatest impact.
Unlike steady background sounds such as rain or a fan, snoring changes constantly. It becomes louder, softer, pauses, and starts again. Because it's unpredictable, the brain continues paying attention instead of filtering it into the background.
The result?
Repeated sleep interruptions throughout the night.
These interruptions may only last a few seconds, but they can prevent the brain from spending enough time in the deeper stages of sleep that are important for recovery, memory and mood.
Many partners describe feeling exhausted despite spending eight hours in bed.
Some even report moving into another bedroom simply to get a decent night's sleep.
The effects can extend beyond tiredness.
Poor sleep may affect concentration, patience, work performance and relationships. Small disagreements often feel bigger when both partners are sleep deprived.
The encouraging news is that snoring doesn't have to become "normal."
Lifestyle changes, good sleep habits and appropriate treatment options can make a meaningful difference for many people who experience simple snoring.
If snoring is loud, persistent or accompanied by choking, gasping or pauses in breathing, it's important to seek medical advice, as these may be signs of obstructive sleep apnoea.
Helping one person sleep better often means helping two people wake up feeling more refreshed.