Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
Snoring occurs when air passes through a narrowed airway, causing vibrations in the throat. Loud snoring can sometimes indicate sleep-related breathing issues like sleep apnoea.
Common Causes of Snoring:
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Allergies
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Anatomy of your mouth
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Overweight (extra tissue in the throat)
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Alcohol consumption
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Nasal congestion
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Medications
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Sleep position
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Sleep deprivation
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Swollen tonsils or adenoids (especially in children)
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Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?
OSA is a serious condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to breathing pauses. This is often accompanied by loud snoring followed by silence when breathing stops, with the person waking up gasping or snorting.
What Causes Sleep Apnoea?
During sleep, relaxed throat muscles and soft tissue can obstruct the airway. If you or your partner experience symptoms like snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, breathing pauses, or teeth grinding, it’s important to seek treatment.