Snoring with daytime sleepiness: when to suspect sleep apnoea

Snoring alone does not diagnose sleep apnoea. Assessment matters when someone notices breathing pauses, choking sounds or persistent daytime sleepiness. NHS guidance describes overnight breathing tests, sometimes performed at home.

A sleeping partner may observe events the person cannot recall, making their description useful at consultation. Treatment may include a device that keeps the airway open using positive air pressure, depending on assessment.

Severe sleepiness is a safety concern, particularly for driving. Do not self-prescribe sleeping pills, which can worsen apnoea. A snoring app cannot replace diagnosis and follow-up.