Sleep apnoea or snoring?

[sporty]

What's the difference between sleep apnoea and plain old snoring? How do I know which I've got?

[andy hughes]

There is an important difference between sleep apnoea and snoring. Snoring can be caused by a variety of conditions, it usually results in the vibration of the soft palet tissues in the back of the throat, exacerbated by a cold, or in some cases by intake of alcohol. Apnoea is a condition in which the snorer stops breathing for a few seconds, often hundreds of times in a night. The danger is the ongong strain on the heart, which speeds up to 'kick in' respiration. If you sleep with a partner, they will know if you snore (!) and should be able to observe if apnoea is present. If not, you GP will refer you for a Sleep Study, you will spend a night at your local hospital Study Unit who will monitor your breathing electronically. If you have apnoea, there are techiques to prevent it - one is an electric air machine which blows air into your airway via a face mask, keeping the airway open. An alternative is a tonsilectomy, which will clear an obstructed airway. See your GP for some advice.

[SMILL48]

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