Remedy for snoring at night

Snoring is produced when relaxed tissues in the nose or throat vibrate as air moves during sleep. Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Sinusitis can narrow the nasal passages. Obesity can increase pressure around the upper airway. Snoring accompanied by pauses in breathing, choking sounds, morning headaches or daytime sleepiness raises concern for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea; the snoring itself does not establish that diagnosis.

Try sleeping on your side, keeping a regular sleep schedule and avoiding alcohol close to bedtime. Treat nasal blockage only with advice suited to its cause; a clinician or pharmacist can explain saline care or a nasal medicine. If weight is contributing, a gradual, supported plan such as a Weight Management Programme may help breathing and general health. Ask someone who hears you sleep whether pauses or gasping occur.

Book an assessment if snoring is loud and persistent, disrupts a partner's sleep, or comes with daytime sleepiness or poor concentration. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness while awake, blue lips, chest pain, fainting or prolonged breathing difficulty. A sleep assessment may be recommended when breathing repeatedly stops or starts at night.

Could nasal blockage, my medicines or body weight be contributing? Do my symptoms suggest sleep apnoea? Would a sleep study, nasal treatment or referral be appropriate?