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Sleep Apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea is when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep because the throat narrows. It causes poor sleep and daytime tiredness, and is treatable.
Causes & risk factors
- Relaxed throat muscles blocking the airway in sleep
- Being overweight, especially around the neck
- Large tonsils or a set-back jaw
- Alcohol and sedatives before bed
- Smoking and nasal congestion
Common symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or pauses in breathing during sleep
- Daytime sleepiness and tiredness
- Morning headaches
- Poor concentration and irritability
Tests & diagnosis
- Sleep study (polysomnography)
- Home sleep apnoea test
- Epworth sleepiness questionnaire
- Thyroid test (to rule out other causes)
Treatment & management
- Weight loss and avoiding alcohol before bed
- Sleeping on your side
- CPAP machine that keeps the airway open at night
- Mouth (mandibular) devices for milder cases
- Surgery in selected cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Falling asleep while driving — stop driving and seek help urgently
- Witnessed breathing pauses with gasping at night
- Severe daytime sleepiness affecting daily life
- Morning headaches with high blood pressure
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about sleep apnoea. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is snoring the same as sleep apnoea?
Not always. Snoring is common, but if it comes with breathing pauses, gasping and daytime tiredness, sleep apnoea may be the cause.
Can sleep apnoea affect my health long-term?
Untreated, it can raise blood pressure and strain the heart. Treatment improves sleep, energy and long-term health.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.