Is it snoring or sleep apnoea? Dr Mark Porter explains
Our resident doctor Dr Mark Porter on how to deal with a snoring problem that is causing sleepless nights.
Image credit: Getty/AndreyPopov
Our resident doctor Dr Mark Porter on how to deal with a snoring problem that is causing sleepless nights.
Q. Is treatment for snoring available on the NHS?
I am worried about my husband. He has always snored a bit, but recently it has become much worse and he seems to hold his breath for long periods, sometimes waking with a start, only to drop off and start snoring again.
A: Treatment for simple snoring is not generally available on the NHS.
However, your husband’s case may be more complicated, as he may have obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), for which he can, and should, get help.
As well as disturbing you, it could have implications for his own health and wellbeing. Someone with OSA tends to have snoring punctuated by silences during which the snorer seems to stop breathing (apnoea) until they cough, splutter, wake momentarily or change position, and start again.
Their breathing stops because their upper airway blocks and they start to suffocate. As oxygen levels drop a self-preservation reflex kicks in and the snorer rouses before dropping off again.
This cycle can be repeated many times a night, meaning they wake feeling unrefreshed, are tired and irritable throughout the day and often nod off inappropriately.
The resulting fatigue and irritability can lead to everything from relationship problems and poor concentration to crashing when driving.
And OSA is also linked to a higher risk of health problems like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease too. Disturbed nights and repeated episodes of low oxygen are not good for your brain or body, or the person sleeping next to you.
Fortunately, it is treatable.
Less severe cases may respond to self-help measures like weight loss, and stopping smoking and cutting back on alcohol where relevant.
However, most will need some form of help to keep their airway open while asleep, such as a special type of ‘gumshield’ (mandibular advancement device) or, more commonly, a mask connected to a machine that gently blows air into the nose (CPAP).
The next step is to confirm what is going on. That will require referral to a specialist clinic to confirm the diagnosis. Something to discuss with your own GP, please.
The Sleep Apnoea Trust has more information.
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