Loud snoring and daytime sleepiness may be signs of obstructive sleep apnea. Learn symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.
Is Snoring Always Harmless?
Not necessarily.
Occasional snoring can be common, but loud habitual snoring combined with pauses in breathing or excessive daytime sleepiness may indicate obstructive sleep apnea.
Possible symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Witnessed breathing pauses
- Gasping during sleep
- Morning headache
- Daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Poor sleep quality
Who is at higher risk?
Risk may increase with:
- Obesity
- Larger neck circumference
- Certain facial/anatomical features
- Increasing age
- Alcohol exposure
- Nasal obstruction
Why does it matter?
Untreated sleep apnea can be associated with hypertension, impaired daytime alertness and other health problems.
How is it diagnosed?
A healthcare professional may recommend a sleep study depending on symptoms and risk assessment.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity and can include weight management, positional measures, positive airway pressure therapy and other approaches.
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