Snoring is annoying to say the least, but if you listen closely (or ask your partner) to your snore, you can figure out the cause, because the type of noise a snorer makes gives clues to what's causing the problem.

Sound: Snorting and wheezing
Similar to: A pug with hay fever
Source: Allergies or a deviated septum

Sound: Low-pitched, guttural rumbling
Similar to: A diesel-fuelled lawn mower
Source: A heavy obstruction of the airway, such as the base of the tongue

Sound: High-pitched whistling
Similar to: Mariah Carey singing a piercing note underwater
Source: A partial obstruction of the airway, such as an enlarged part of the soft palate

Sound: Grunting and choking
Similar to: Pigs wrestling
Source: Sleep apnea, which starts as a crescendo of noise followed first by excruciating silence when breathing stops, and then a snort or a gasp as the body jolts itself to start oxygen flowing again.