When to worry about headache with obstructive sleep apnoea

Repeated pauses in breathing during sleep can fragment rest and alter overnight oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. A morning headache may occur with dry mouth, loud snoring, witnessed breathing pauses, choking sounds, or daytime sleepiness. Headache alone cannot establish the cause, and a new or changing pattern should be assessed rather than attributed automatically to sleep apnoea.

Use prescribed positive-airway-pressure treatment as instructed and tell your clinician if the mask is uncomfortable, leaks, or is not being used consistently. Avoid alcohol or sedating medicines unless a clinician has advised them, and do not drive when unusually sleepy. Keep notes on waking headache, snoring, sleep quality, medicines, and daytime alertness for your appointment.

Call emergency services for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting, seizure, or sudden vision loss. Seek prompt advice for chest pain, severe breathlessness, blue lips, or difficulty staying awake. Arrange a review if morning headaches persist, treatment is not helping, or sleepiness is affecting work, driving, or safety.

Does my treatment need adjustment or a sleep assessment? Could medicines, blood pressure, or another headache disorder be contributing? How can I stay safe if daytime sleepiness continues?