What is the first treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea?

Obstructive sleep apnoea happens when the upper airway narrows or closes during sleep, causing pauses in breathing, snoring, gasping, and broken sleep. Daytime tiredness, morning headaches, poor concentration, or irritability may follow. A sleep study records breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep-related events so treatment is based on measured findings rather than symptoms alone.

Arrange a clinical assessment if you regularly snore loudly, wake choking, or feel sleepy during the day. Use the sleep study as instructed, whether it is completed at home or in a clinic. While waiting, follow advice about side sleeping, alcohol near bedtime, sedating medicines, and a regular sleep schedule. If weight contributes to airway narrowing, a weight-management programme may be part of care. Some people need airway-support equipment or another specialist treatment after assessment.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty while awake, chest pain, fainting, new confusion, or blue or grey lips. Arrange prompt review if sleepiness makes driving or operating equipment unsafe, or if symptoms are worsening. Do not drive when you feel unable to stay alert.

Ask which sleep study is suitable, how to prepare, and when results will be reviewed. Discuss whether medicines, nasal blockage, alcohol, sleep position, or weight may affect your symptoms, and ask what treatment is recommended if the study confirms apnoea.