Snoring is often dismissed as a mere annoyance, but its connection to sleep apnoea raises significant health concerns. While snoring may seem harmless, it can be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition.
Understanding the link between snoring and sleep apnoea is crucial for recognising potential health risks and seeking timely intervention.
Understanding Snoring and Its Causes
Snoring occurs when tissues in the throat vibrate as air flows through partially blocked airways. This blockage can result from various factors, leading to the distinct snoring sound. Common causes of snoring include:
- Relaxed throat muscles: When throat muscles relax excessively, the airway narrows, causing snoring.
- Nasal congestion: Allergies or sinus infections can obstruct nasal passages, contributing to snoring.
- Sleep position: Sleeping on the back can cause the tongue to collapse backward, blocking the airway.
- Obesity: Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can restrict airflow and lead to snoring.
Risk Factors for Snoring
| Risk Factor | Impact on Snoring |
| Obesity | Increases fatty tissue around the throat |
| Alcohol use | Relaxes throat muscles excessively |
| Smoking | Irritates airways and increases congestion |
Snoring may be harmless, but if it disrupts sleep or leads to daytime fatigue, seeking medical evaluation to rule out conditions like sleep apnoea is essential.
Exploring the Symptoms of Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), is characterised by blocked airflow due to relaxed throat muscles.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnoea
- Loud snoring
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and mood changes
Sleep apnoea can lead to fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen levels in the blood, increasing the risk of serious health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
The Relationship Between Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
Snoring is a key symptom of sleep apnoea, but not everyone who snores has the condition. However, frequent loud snoring and other symptoms like daytime drowsiness or gasping during sleep can indicate obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Distinguishing Snoring from Sleep Apnoea
| Symptom | Snoring | Sleep Apnoea |
| Occasional snoring | Yes | Yes |
| Loud, frequent snoring | Yes | Yes |
| Pauses in breathing | No | Yes |
| Gasping for air during sleep | No | Yes |
| Excessive daytime sleepiness | Sometimes | Yes |
Untreated sleep apnoea can have serious consequences on overall health. Individuals who snore and exhibit symptoms like gasping during sleep or excessive daytime fatigue should seek a medical diagnosis.
Managing Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
There are several effective ways to manage both snoring and sleep apnoea, depending on the severity of the condition.
Treatment Options for Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
- Lifestyle changes
- Lose weight
- Avoid alcohol before bed
- Sleep on your side
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A CPAP machine keeps the airway open during sleep by delivering air pressure through a mask.
- Oral appliances: Specially designed dental devices can help prevent airway blockage.
- Surgical options: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove excess tissue or correct structural issues in the airway.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action, especially if sleep apnoea is suspected.
Key Takeaways
If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic snoring or signs of sleep apnoea, it is important to seek professional help. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious health complications. Dental Sleep Professionals, located in NSW and QLD, specialise in diagnosing and treating sleep apnoea.
Take the first step towards better sleep and improved health by booking an assessment today.
Dr. Joachim Ngiam is a multi-award-winning dental sleep practitioner specializing in oral appliance therapy for snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). With over 30 years of experience, he has published numerous studies in peer-reviewed journals and lectures nationally and internationally, offering effective, non-invasive treatments to improve patients’ lives.
