What is the main cause of snoring?

Nasal blockage, a naturally narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, sleeping on the back, alcohol near bedtime, and smoking can make airflow noisier. Allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis may reduce nasal airflow. Obesity can add tissue around the neck and increase narrowing, although snoring can affect people of many body types. Loud snoring with pauses, gasping, restless sleep, or marked daytime tiredness can be a presentation of obstructive sleep apnoea rather than simple snoring.

Keep the nose clear where appropriate, sleep on your side, avoid alcohol close to bedtime, and stop smoking if you smoke. Review medicines that cause sedation with a clinician rather than stopping them yourself. If weight is contributing, a supported Weight Management Programme may help overall health and airway symptoms. A clinician can examine the nose and throat and arrange a sleep assessment when the pattern suggests obstructive sleep apnoea.

Arrange an appointment if snoring is persistent, newly severe, or affecting a partner’s sleep. Seek prompt assessment for witnessed breathing pauses, choking or gasping during sleep, morning headaches, or daytime sleepiness that makes driving unsafe. Urgent help is needed for severe breathing difficulty while awake.

Ask whether nasal blockage, medicines, or sleep apnoea could explain the sound, whether a sleep test is appropriate, and which treatment fits your airway findings.