What causes loud snoring?

Nasal blockage from allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis can force breathing through the mouth. Sleeping on your back, alcohol near bedtime, smoking and some medicines can further relax or narrow the airway. Body weight can also affect the space around the throat. Snoring may be a feature of obstructive sleep apnoea, particularly when it is accompanied by pauses in breathing, choking sounds or restless sleep.

Ask someone who sleeps nearby whether they notice breathing pauses or gasping. Keep nasal passages comfortable, sleep on your side and avoid alcohol close to bedtime. Treat nasal allergies only with advice suited to you. If weight is contributing, a clinician can discuss a weight management programme that fits your health and circumstances. Persistent snoring should be assessed rather than judged by sound alone.

Book an appointment if snoring is frequent, disruptive or linked with morning headaches, dry mouth, poor concentration or daytime sleepiness. Seek prompt medical advice if another person observes repeated pauses, gasping or choking during sleep. Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty while awake, chest pain, fainting or sudden confusion.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest obstructive sleep apnoea, whether nasal treatment could help, and if a sleep assessment is appropriate. Tell the clinician about daytime tiredness, medicines, alcohol, allergies and any witnessed breathing pauses.