Snoring alone does not mean sleep apnoea. Observed breathing pauses, waking with choking and daytime sleepiness warrant assessment; an appropriate sleep test clarifies the diagnosis.
Untreated apnoea is associated with cardiovascular and other health problems, but individual risk varies. DISE can identify obstruction levels in selected patients being considered for surgery; it does not replace sleep testing. Treatment is not limited to an operation.
Snoring alone does not establish the diagnosis. Sleep testing is selected by age and risk; some adult tests can be performed at home. Weight management, CPAP, suitable oral appliances and selected surgery are considered individually.
If daytime sleepiness affects safe driving, do not drive and inform your clinician. Blue colouring or serious breathing difficulty in a child requires emergency care.
This information does not replace an individual consultation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on a medical assessment.
Consultation and treatment