Answer: More than 45 percent of normal adults snore at least occasionally. It's more common in men and those who are overweight. Snoring tends to worsen with age.When airflow through the passages at the back of the nose and throat is obstructed, the walls of the throat vibrate, resulting in snoring. Some causes include poor muscle tone in the tongue and throat; partially blocked nasal passages because of allergies, sinus infections, deformities of the nose, etc.; bulky throat tissue (enlarged tonsils or adenoids, obesity); or a long palate or uvula (the dangling tissue in the back of the mouth).Sleep apnea, an illness associated with chronic snorers, is when snoring is interrupted by totally obstructed breathing. It is serious because light sleep and frequent waking can lead to severe drowsiness during the day, negatively affecting quality of life and safety. It can also lead to high blood pressure and various cardiac problems.Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea but snoring alone does not stop breathing. Occasional snoring is usually not serious except for being a nuisance for the bed partner of the snorer.