Understanding Snoring, Sleep Apnoea, and When to Seek Medical Help in Singapore
Snoring is often dismissed as a harmless inconvenience—but for many, it can be a warning sign of a more serious medical issue. In Singapore, where sleep disorders are becoming increasingly common, loud or chronic snoring may indicate obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) or other underlying health problems.
If you or a loved one snores regularly, it’s important to understand what might be causing it—and when to seek help from a sleep specialist or ENT doctor in Singapore.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring occurs when airflow is partially blocked during sleep, causing vibrations in the tissues of the throat or nose. Common causes of snoring include:
Nasal congestion or allergies
Obesity or weight gain
Sleep posture (especially sleeping on your back)
Alcohol or sedative use before bed
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
A deviated nasal septum or narrow airway
These issues can restrict airflow and lead to night-time breathing problems, especially if snoring is loud and persistent.
Is Snoring a Sign of Sleep Apnoea?
Yes—chronic, loud snoring is one of the most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a serious sleep disorder that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep.
Common symptoms of sleep apnoea include:
Loud snoring with gasping, choking, or snorting sounds
Daytime fatigue or excessive sleepiness
Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
Morning headaches or dry mouth
Mood changes, irritability, or depression
High blood pressure or irregular heartbeat
Left untreated, OSA can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic health conditions.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Snoring
Snoring can affect more than just your quality of sleep—it can lead to serious health complications, strained relationships, and even safety issues due to drowsiness. In Singapore, many people remain undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness or access to proper sleep assessments.
If you experience regular snoring or suspect sleep apnoea symptoms, seeking help from a qualified ENT or sleep doctor is crucial.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options in Singapore
At ConnectDr, we help you access professional care from experienced ENT specialists and sleep clinics in Singapore. Here’s what you can expect:
Diagnosis
Clinical sleep assessment or sleep questionnaire
Home-based or in-clinic sleep study (polysomnography)
Nasal and throat examination to assess airway blockage
Treatment
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy
Weight loss and lifestyle changes
Custom oral appliances for mild cases
Surgical options (e.g., septoplasty, tonsillectomy, or UPPP surgery) for anatomical issues
When to See a Doctor for Snoring
Seek medical advice if you or your partner notices:
Loud, habitual snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep
Daytime tiredness despite a full night’s sleep
Trouble focusing or feeling irritable during the day
Snoring that affects your partner’s sleep
Don’t let snoring go unchecked. It might be more than just noise—it could be a sign of a serious condition like sleep apnoea. Take the first step toward better sleep and better health—schedule a consultation today.
