Snoring is often brushed off as a harmless habit—but as an ENT surgeon, I see daily how it can be the first warning sign of a much more serious condition called sleep apnoea.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring happens when airflow is partially blocked during sleep. Common ENT-related causes include:
- Deviated nasal septum
- Nasal allergies or chronic congestion
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids (very common in children)
- A bulky tongue base or relaxed throat muscles
- Obesity and alcohol before bedtime
The vibration of these relaxed or narrowed tissues creates the familiar snoring sound.
When Does Snoring Become Dangerous?
It becomes dangerous if it is loud, regular, and associated with:
- Breathing pauses during sleep
- Choking or gasping at night
- Daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, poor concentration
It may indicate Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)—a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, lowering oxygen levels.
Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnoea
Untreated sleep apnoea increases the risk of:
In children, it can lead to poor growth and learning issues.
How an ENT Evaluation Helps
An ENT evaluation focuses on finding the exact site of obstruction—nose, throat, tonsils, tongue base, or multiple levels.
Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
Medical Management
Allergy control, nasal therapy, weight, and lifestyle advice.
CPAP Therapy
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine to keep airways open.
Surgical Options
Tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, septoplasty, or airway surgeries.
Snoring is not just a noise—it’s a signal.
Early ENT assessment can prevent long-term complications and dramatically improve sleep quality, energy levels, and overall health. If you or your child snores regularly, don’t ignore it. Good sleep is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Dr. Himanshu C Bayad
ENT Surgeon
