Just Think of That Snoring as a Cry for Help
To the Editor:
“City Noise Code Gets Stricter; Fancy Meters Will Aid Ears” (news article, Dec..22) did not mention another source of intense noise that is rampant throughout the city: snoring.
The current world record for the loudest snoring is 90 decibels. This is much louder than standing next to a diesel bus engine.
There have been various reports of citations by city officials here and in other cities of snorers’ breaking the law by making too much noise. Not only is this disruptive for next-door residents, but it is also disruptive for spouses, bed partners and relationships.
If you can’t sleep because of a snorer, don’t call the police—call a doctor instead. It has been estimated that up to 35 percent of all chronic snorers may have obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that can potentially lead to depression, high blood pressure, heart attack or stroke. You may even save his or her life.
Steven Y. Park, M.D.
New York, Dec. 22, 2005
From: “Letter to the Editor” that was published in The New York
Time Editorial section on Wednesday, December 28, 2005.
Steven Y. Park, M.D.
Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery
(212) 315-9058
