What causes obstructive sleep apnoea?

During sleep, muscles supporting the throat relax. A crowded or narrow upper airway, enlarged soft tissues, and fat around the neck can make closure more likely; obesity is a recognised contributor. Nasal blockage from allergic rhinitis can increase resistance and encourage mouth breathing, adding to noisy breathing. Snoring, witnessed pauses, gasping, morning headache, dry mouth, poor concentration, and daytime sleepiness are clues, but only an assessment can establish the cause and severity.

Ask a clinician about persistent loud snoring, witnessed breathing pauses, or sleepiness that affects driving or work. They may review weight, nasal symptoms, medicines, alcohol, sleep position, and blood pressure, then arrange a sleep assessment. Treating nasal inflammation may improve nasal airflow but does not replace evaluation for suspected apnoea. Keep a regular sleep routine and avoid driving when unusually sleepy.

Arrange medical review when snoring is accompanied by pauses, choking or gasping, morning headaches, or significant daytime sleepiness. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness while awake, chest pain, fainting, or confusion. Do not ignore sleepiness behind the wheel: stop driving and obtain advice promptly.

Could nasal blockage, body structure, or obesity be narrowing my airway? Should I have a sleep study? What can I do about daytime sleepiness while assessment is arranged?