The compromised quality and amount of sleep directly affect the energy, concentration and alertness of the snorer. This can result in loss of productivity and affect one's ability to perform their work, including the ability to safely operate a car. Life Magazine reports "nearly two-thirds of Americans say sleep deprivation affects their work, which translates into a $70 billion loss in productivity. There are wrecked careers and wrecked cars." Dr. William Dement, Stanford University sleep expert, estimates that 38,000 people die each year from the consequences of sleep apnea. Another 24,000 die in accidents caused by sleepiness.Beyond the symptoms experienced by the snorer, the quality of the sleep of the bed partner is frequently affected as well, resulting in their fatigue, headaches, mood and anxiety swings, and loss of productivity.

Snoring is not only a social nuisance, but may be a sign of other signifigant problems affecting the health of the snorer. Snoring may be the sign of more serious Obstructive Sleep Apnea (the involuntary cessation of breathing).

"Sleep apnea not only ruins your sleep, but your health," according to Dr. Roger Crumley, an Otolaryngologist at the University of California, Irvine. "When you stop breathing your blood pressure rises, and your heart works harder. As a result, apnea may increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure and lung problems."