Snoring and sleep apnoea: how do I get checked?
Loud snoring with daytime tiredness can be a sign of sleep apnoea. Here's how testing works and who you'll see.
Snoring on its own is common and often harmless. But loud snoring with pauses in breathing, gasping or choking at night can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnoea. In sleep apnoea, the throat narrows or closes during sleep, briefly stopping your breathing and disturbing your sleep many times a night.
Untreated sleep apnoea can leave you exhausted and is linked with high blood pressure, heart problems, mood changes and a higher risk of crashes when driving.
Signs to mention to your GP
- Loud snoring most nights
- A partner noticing you stop breathing or gasp during sleep
- Waking unrefreshed, or with a dry mouth or headache
- Feeling very sleepy during the day, or nodding off while reading or watching TV
- Poor concentration, irritability or low mood
- Getting up often to pass urine at night
How sleep apnoea is tested
Your GP will ask about your sleep and may use a short questionnaire. If sleep apnoea seems likely, the next step is a sleep study. This may be done at home with a portable monitor, or overnight in a sleep laboratory. Medicare rebates for sleep studies have rules about who can request them, so your GP will guide you through the right pathway.
Results are usually reviewed by a sleep physician. Many sleep physicians work in Respiratory medicine. Depending on the cause, you may also see ENT surgery, for example if large tonsils or a blocked nose are part of the problem.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on how severe the apnoea is and what's causing it. Options include:
- CPAP, a machine that gently pushes air through a mask to keep your airway open while you sleep
- A custom mouthguard, called a mandibular advancement splint, made by a dentist
- Weight loss, less alcohol in the evening and sleeping on your side
- Surgery for some people with a specific blockage in the nose or throat
Most people need some time and support to get used to CPAP. Ask about mask fitting and follow-up. Spec Book shows which sleep and respiratory specialists have the soonest appointments, and your GP can send the referral with the booking.
Driving and work
If you're very sleepy during the day, avoid driving until you've been assessed and treated. Some conditions, including sleep apnoea, can affect your driver's licence, especially for heavy vehicle or commercial drivers. Your doctor can explain what applies to you.
When to get urgent help
Call 000 if someone has severe trouble breathing, chest pain, or can't be woken.
Common questions
Is snoring always sleep apnoea?
No. Many people snore without apnoea. It's worth checking if snoring comes with pauses in breathing or daytime sleepiness.
Can I do a sleep study at home?
Often, yes. Home studies suit many adults. Some people need a lab study, for example if they have other health conditions.
Will I need CPAP forever?
CPAP treats sleep apnoea while you use it. Some people can reduce or stop it if the cause changes, such as after weight loss, but only with their doctor's advice.
General information only, not medical advice. Everyone's situation is different, so check with your GP or the provider. In an emergency call 000.