What are the first signs of obstructive sleep apnoea?

Obstructive sleep apnoea happens when the upper airway narrows or closes repeatedly during sleep. A partner may notice pauses followed by snorting, choking or a sudden breath. You may not remember these events, but may wake with a dry mouth, a morning headache, poor concentration or unusual irritability. Snoring is common and does not by itself confirm the condition; the pattern of disrupted breathing and daytime symptoms matters.

Keep a brief record of snoring, witnessed breathing pauses, waking symptoms and daytime sleepiness. Arrange a GP assessment if these features recur, especially if you are struggling to stay alert while driving or working. A clinician may ask about sleep, medicines, nasal blockage and other health conditions, then decide whether an overnight breathing assessment is appropriate. A partner’s description can be useful.

Seek prompt medical advice for repeated breathing pauses, severe daytime sleepiness, or morning headaches that keep returning. Do not drive if you feel you might fall asleep. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty while awake, blue lips, fainting or chest pain that does not settle.

Ask whether your symptoms fit obstructive sleep apnoea, whether a sleep study is needed, and what changes may improve sleep while you wait. You can also ask how nasal congestion, body weight or alcohol near bedtime might affect your symptoms.