What should you know about open mouth snoring?

When the nose feels blocked, the mouth opens to maintain airflow; vibration of relaxed throat tissues then creates the snoring sound. Allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis can reduce nasal airflow. Snoring may also occur with obesity or obstructive sleep apnoea. Apnoea is more concerning when breathing pauses, gasping, morning headaches, or marked daytime sleepiness are present.

Notice whether snoring changes with nasal symptoms, alcohol, sleep position, or medicines, and ask a sleep partner about pauses or gasping. Treat a known nasal trigger according to medical advice, keep the bedroom free of smoke, and try side sleeping. If weight is affecting breathing, discuss a suitable weight management programme rather than making abrupt changes.

Arrange a clinical review for frequent disruptive snoring, witnessed pauses, choking or gasping at night, morning headaches, or sleepiness that affects driving or work. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, chest pain, fainting, or confusion. Do not drive when you are struggling to stay awake.

Ask whether nasal treatment, a sleep assessment, or other testing is appropriate. Tell your clinician about witnessed breathing pauses, sleep position, daytime alertness, nasal blockage, alcohol, sedatives, and any recent weight change.