This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.
Overview
Snoring is the noisy vibration of respiratory structures due to obstructed air movement during sleep, which can affect sleep quality for the snorer and bed partners.
Symptoms
Loud, frequent snoring Pauses in breathing during sleep Restless sleep Daytime sleepiness or fatigue Morning headache
Causes
Obstructed nasal airways Obesity and excess throat tissue Alcohol or sedative use before sleep Sleep position (lying on the back)
Diagnosis
Sleep history and physical examination Polysomnography (sleep study) if obstructive sleep apnoea suspected
Treatment
Lifestyle changes: weight loss, avoiding alcohol Sleeping on the side or elevating the head CPAP or oral appliances for sleep apnoea Surgery in severe cases to remove obstruction