Snoring happens when relaxed tissues in the nose and throat vibrate as air passes. For some people it is just noise. For others, it comes with brief pauses in breathing that disturb sleep.
Signs that deserve a check
Loud snoring with gasping or choking, unrefreshing sleep, morning headaches, daytime sleepiness or difficulty concentrating suggest obstructive sleep apnoea may be present.
Finding the blockage
An ENT examination looks at the nose, tonsils and throat to see where the airway narrows. A sleep study may be advised to measure how severe the problem is.
What helps
Weight management, sleeping on your side, treating nasal allergy and avoiding alcohol before bed help many people. When a clear anatomical cause is found, a procedure may be recommended.
This article is for general education and does not replace a consultation. If you have symptoms, please see a doctor.