Snoring isn’t always harmless. For many people, it could be the first red flag for a serious condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). OSA causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, and it can be life-threatening if left untreated. These pauses in breathing — sometimes lasting 10 seconds or more — disrupt your sleep and reduce oxygen levels in your body.
What Exactly Is OSA?
OSA occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax too much during sleep, blocking the airway. As a result, your brain briefly wakes you up to resume breathing — but you may not remember it happening. This can occur dozens or even hundreds of times a night, leading to poor-quality sleep, fatigue, and serious health issues over time.
The Silent Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Common signs of OSA include:
1. Loud, chronic snoring
2. Choking or gasping during sleep
3. Morning headaches
4. Excessive daytime tiredness
5. Mood swings or irritability
6. Difficulty concentrating
Often, people with OSA are unaware of the problem — it’s their partners who notice the symptoms first.
OSA Can Lead to Deadly Complications
Untreated OSA doesn’t just make you feel tired — it can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It also weakens your immune system and can lead to memory loss, depression, and poor mental health. In fact, studies show that people with severe sleep apnoea are more likely to have heart attacks or sudden cardiac death.
Who’s at Risk of Developing OSA?
OSA can affect anyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable:
1. People who are overweight or obese
2. Those with a large neck or small jaw
3. Men over 40
4. Individuals with a family history of sleep disorders
5. Smokers and those who consume alcohol regularly
How Can You Get Diagnosed?
If you suspect OSA, speak to a doctor or sleep specialist. They may recommend a sleep study, which monitors your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain waves overnight. This can be done at a sleep clinic or with a home sleep test kit. The results will confirm whether you have sleep apnoea and how severe it is.
Treatment Can Transform Your Life
The good news is — OSA is treatable. Common treatment options include:
1. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines that keep your airway open
2. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, quitting smoking, or sleeping on your side
3. Surgery or dental devices for specific cases
With proper treatment, people with OSA often experience better sleep, more energy, and reduced health risks within weeks.
Take Snoring Seriously — It Could Save a Life
Snoring isn’t just a bedroom annoyance — it could be your body’s cry for help. If you or someone you love shows signs of OSA, don’t ignore it. Getting tested and treated can drastically improve your quality of life — and might even save it. So, the next time someone jokes about your snoring, take a moment to listen. Your health may depend on it.
With IANS inputs
(This article is meant for informational purposes only and must not be considered a substitute for advice provided by qualified medical professionals.)
