Which specialist treats obstructive sleep apnoea?

Obstructive sleep apnoea happens when the upper airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep. Loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing, waking unrefreshed, and daytime sleepiness can lead to an assessment, although each symptom can have other causes. A GP reviews sleep, medical history, medicines, nasal symptoms, and the effect on daytime alertness. A sleep specialist or respiratory physician may organise and interpret sleep testing. An ENT specialist may assess nose, throat, or jaw anatomy when blockage in the upper airway is a concern.

Make a GP appointment if snoring is disruptive, someone has noticed breathing pauses, or sleepiness is affecting concentration, driving, or work. If possible, ask a bed partner what they observe during the night and write down when symptoms occur. Mention blocked nose, night sweats, bedwetting, weight changes, alcohol use, and sedating medicines. Until you have been assessed, avoid driving or operating machinery when you feel too sleepy to stay alert.

Seek urgent medical care for severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, blue or grey lips, or a sudden inability to stay awake. Arrange prompt review if daytime sleepiness is creating a safety risk, such as dozing while driving or at work. Children with breathing pauses during sleep, persistent bedwetting together with snoring, or major daytime behaviour changes should also be assessed promptly.

Ask whether a sleep study is appropriate, whether a home test can answer the clinical question, and which specialist is best placed to review the result. You can also ask whether nasal blockage, weight, medicines, or another condition could be affecting sleep.