Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to obstructive sleep apnea, covering warning signs, diagnosis and treatment options for better sleep.
Treatment usually begins with
Specialist Assessment
Sleep Study
CPAP Therapy
Surgical Options
Treatment is tailored to severity, ranging from lifestyle changes to CPAP therapy to surgery.
You may need this evaluated if...
A sleep apnea evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Loud, habitual snoring
- Witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Waking up gasping or choking
Obstructive sleep apnea is very treatable, and most patients see significant improvement in sleep quality and daytime energy.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway repeatedly narrows or collapses during sleep, causing breathing pauses that disrupt rest and lower oxygen levels.
Often Under-Diagnosed
Many people live with symptoms for years before being evaluated.
Affects More Than Sleep
Untreated sleep apnea is linked to broader health risks over time.
Confirmed with a Sleep Study
A structured sleep study confirms the diagnosis and its severity.
Multiple Treatment Options
From lifestyle changes to CPAP therapy to surgery, effective options exist for every severity level.
Common Symptoms
- Loud, habitual snoring
- Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, lifestyle and environmental factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Clinical History
A review of your sleep symptoms and daytime function guides the initial assessment.
Sleep Study
An overnight study measures breathing pauses and oxygen levels during sleep.
ENT Examination
An examination checks for nasal, tonsil or airway factors contributing to the condition.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- CPAP therapy to keep the airway open during sleep
- Weight management guidance where relevant
- Positional therapy for position-related sleep apnea
- Treatment of nasal obstruction contributing to symptoms
Surgical Care
Surgical options, including tonsil or adenoid removal or airway procedures, are considered for cases with a clear anatomical cause or when CPAP isn't tolerated.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, test results, timing and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Loud snoring with daytime sleepiness needing evaluation
- Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Severe daytime sleepiness affecting safety, such as while driving
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right ENT specialist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right ENT specialist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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