Snoring can be a problem for anyone suffering with it, but it can be even worse for your spouse. Studies have shown that bedmates of someone who snores can lose about 1 hour of sleep every night. This problem is known as Spousal Arousal Syndrome - it can cause your spouse to wake up as many as 21 times per hour, not letting them get a good night's sleep.

This can result in a lack of energy, irritability and other problems during the day, and it just compounds over time.

A recent survey showed that as many as 80% of couples where one is a snorer sleep apart. This can have a negative effect on the happiness of a marriage and the sex life.

If a snoring problem is having a negative effect on your relationship, it needs to be addressed. Here are a few things you can do to tackle the problem:

First, you need to discuss the issue with your husband or wife. If you're not communicating about the problem, you won't be able to come up with a solution.

Next, look at what could be causing the snoring problem and look at the various solutions. Some of the more common factors that lead to snoring are alcohol consumption, excess weight, sleeping pills, antihistamines and sleeping on your back.

By finding the underlying cause for your snoring, you can look at the most effective way to cure it. For example, if the snoring is caused when you're sleeping on your back, you could put a tennis ball in a sock and pin it to the back of your pajamas.

If you roll on your back in the night, the discomfort will make you automatically roll back onto your side.

Regardless of the cause of the snoring problem, it's always best to consult with a health care professional to get an informed opinion about the cause and the best treatment.