How is snoring treated?

Snoring occurs when relaxed tissues in the nose or throat vibrate as air moves during sleep. A blocked nose from Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Sinusitis can narrow the airflow passage. Body-weight changes, sleeping on your back, alcohol near bedtime and sedating medicines may also worsen it. Snoring can be a feature of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, especially when breathing pauses or gasping are noticed.

Try side-sleeping, keep the bedroom free from smoke and treat nasal congestion with advice from a pharmacist or clinician. Limit alcohol close to bedtime and review medicines that make you sleepy with the prescriber. If Obesity is contributing, a clinician can discuss a Weight Management Programme suited to your health. Persistent, disruptive snoring deserves assessment rather than relying only on devices bought without advice.

Book an appointment if snoring is loud most nights, affects your partner, or occurs with morning headaches, daytime sleepiness, poor concentration or waking with choking. Seek prompt medical advice if someone observes repeated breathing pauses. Urgent help is needed for severe breathing difficulty while awake or unusual confusion.

Could nasal blockage, my medicines or sleep position be contributing? Do I need testing for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea? Which weight or airway treatment is appropriate for me?