Sleep apnoea living in adults
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Sleep apnoea is a condition where your breathing stops and starts repeatedly while you sleep. This can happen hundreds of times a night, often without you knowing. It happens because the muscles in your throat relax too much, blocking your airway. This disrupts your sleep and reduces the oxygen reaching your body.
Key facts
- Sleep apnoea affects about 1 in 20 adults, but many don’t know they have it.
- It can cause loud snoring, gasping, and waking up tired even after a full night in bed.
- With treatment, most people feel much better and reduce health risks.
- Untreated sleep apnoea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart problems, and daytime accidents.
Yes, sleep apnoea is a common condition. It is estimated that around 4-5% of adults have moderate to severe sleep apnoea, and many more have milder forms. It often goes undiagnosed because people don't realize their sleep is being disturbed.
Sleep apnoea can affect anyone, but it is more common in men, people who are overweight, and those over 40. Having a larger neck circumference, a family history of sleep apnoea, or certain facial features (like a recessed chin) can also increase risk. It is also more common in people with conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
Symptoms
- Stopping breathing for a prolonged period (over 10-15 seconds) associated with blue lips or face
- Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing that doesn't improve
- Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness
- ⚠If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea and your symptoms suddenly get worse, especially if you feel very drowsy while driving or operating machinery
- ⚠If you have new symptoms like irregular heartbeat or swelling in your legs
Common symptoms
- Loud snoring that is often noticed by a partner
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Feeling very sleepy during the day, even after a full night's sleep
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Irritability or mood changes
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may have less obvious symptoms, such as more fatigue or cognitive decline that can be mistaken for normal aging.
- Nighttime symptoms like snoring may be less noticeable if they live alone.
Causes
Main causes
- Relaxation of the throat muscles during sleep, which blocks the airway
- Being overweight or obese, which can put extra fat around the neck and narrow the airway
- Structural factors like a large tongue, small jaw, or large tonsils (especially in children)
Risk factors
- Being overweight or obese
- Having a larger neck circumference (over 40 cm for men, over 35 cm for women)
- Being male
- Being over 40 years old
- Having a family history of sleep apnoea
- Smoking or using alcohol before bed
- Having conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, or hypothyroidism
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have been told you stop breathing during sleep or you wake up gasping for air
- If you feel very sleepy during the day to the point it affects your safety (e.g., falling asleep while driving)
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you or your partner notice loud snoring that wakes others or is associated with gasping
- If you feel tired and unrefreshed most mornings despite sleeping enough hours
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, sleep patterns, and risk factors. They may also examine your mouth, nose, and neck. The main test for sleep apnoea is a sleep study called polysomnography, which monitors your brain waves, breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels while you sleep.
Tests that may be done
- Home sleep apnoea test – a simplified test you do in your own bed, measuring breathing, oxygen, and heart rate
- Polysomnography – a more detailed study done overnight in a sleep lab, with electrodes on your head and body
- Questionnaires like the Epworth Sleepiness Scale to measure daytime sleepiness
What to expect at your appointment
If your doctor thinks you have sleep apnoea, they will refer you to a sleep specialist. You may have a home test or visit a sleep centre. The test is painless. You simply sleep as usual while sensors record your body functions. Results are usually available within a few weeks.
Treatment
The main treatment for sleep apnoea is using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. This device blows air through a mask into your airway to keep it open while you sleep. Other treatments include oral appliances (similar to a mouthguard) to move your jaw forward, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be considered.
Self-care at home
- Lose weight if you are overweight – even a 10% reduction can improve symptoms
- Sleep on your side instead of your back
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed
- Quit smoking
- Treat nasal allergies or congestion
Medical treatments
The main medical treatment is CPAP therapy. You wear a mask over your nose (or nose and mouth) that is connected to a machine that delivers gently pressurized air to keep your airway open. There are different mask styles, and a sleep team will help you find the right fit. Another option is an oral appliance that holds your jaw or tongue forward during sleep. These are fitted by a dentist or orthodontist. No specific drug names or doses should be mentioned.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for sleep apnoea in adults. It may be considered if there is a clear physical blockage (like large tonsils or a deviated septum) that hasn't responded to other treatments, or if you cannot tolerate CPAP. Procedures include tonsillectomy, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (removing extra tissue in the throat), or jaw repositioning surgery. These are only done after careful discussion with a specialist.
Living with this condition
Living with sleep apnoea often means adjusting to using a CPAP machine every night. Most people get used to it within a few weeks. You'll need to clean the mask and tubing regularly. Daytime sleepiness usually improves quickly with treatment. You should also avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel drowsy.
Lifestyle tips
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule – go to bed and wake up at the same time daily
- Create a calm, dark, and quiet bedroom environment
- Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed
- Keep your CPAP machine clean and replace parts as recommended
- Tell your travel provider if you need to use CPAP when flying – it is allowed as medical equipment
Diet and exercise
Eating a healthy diet and getting regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is the most effective lifestyle change for sleep apnoea. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Even moderate exercise like walking 30 minutes a day can make a difference.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Sleep apnoea can affect your mood and mental health because of poor sleep quality. Many people feel irritable, anxious, or down. Treating the sleep apnoea often improves these feelings. If you are struggling with your mental health, talk to your doctor – they can support you and may refer you to a counselor or therapist.
Prevention
Not all cases of sleep apnoea can be prevented, but maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, and sleeping on your side can reduce your risk. If you have risk factors like a family history, you can't change them, but being aware and getting early treatment can prevent complications.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening for sleep apnoea in the general population. However, if you have risk factors (like obesity, high blood pressure, or a family history) or if you have symptoms, your doctor may ask about your sleep and recommend a study.
Complications
If left untreated
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart disease, including heart attack and stroke
- Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Daytime sleepiness leading to accidents at work or while driving
- Worsening of depression or anxiety
Long-term outlook
With proper treatment, the outlook for sleep apnoea is very good. Most people feel more energetic, think clearly, and have a better quality of life. Treatment also reduces the risk of heart problems and other complications. It is a manageable condition, and with the right support, you can live a full and active life.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Sleep Apnoea Trust (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
- British Lung Foundation ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.