Snoring and Sleep Apnoea in Adults – ENT Causes and Treatments

20 Sept

Snoring is extremely common—affecting around 40% of adults at some stage. While it can be little more than a nuisance, in some cases snoring is a sign of a more serious condition: obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Both can have a significant impact on sleep quality, health, and relationships.

At Hampshire ENT Clinics, our specialists investigate and treat the underlying causes of snoring and sleep apnoea, helping patients breathe and sleep better.

Why Do Adults Snore?

Snoring happens when the flow of air through the nose or throat is partially blocked, causing vibration of the soft tissues. ENT-related causes include:

Nasal obstruction – from a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or nasal polyps.
Throat anatomy – enlarged tonsils, elongated soft palate, or bulky tongue base.
Weight and lifestyle factors – excess weight, alcohol, and smoking can worsen snoring.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?

OSA occurs when the airway collapses repeatedly during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing. This causes disrupted sleep and reduced oxygen levels.

Symptoms may include:

Loud snoring, often with pauses or choking sounds.
Excessive daytime tiredness.
Morning headaches.
Poor concentration and memory.
Irritability or low mood.

Untreated OSA can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

ENT Assessment of Snoring and Sleep Apnoea

At Hampshire ENT Clinics, assessment may include:

Nasal endoscopy to check for structural obstruction.
Sleep studies to diagnose and grade OSA.
Allergy or breathing tests if nasal congestion is contributing.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause and severity:

For Snoring

Lifestyle measures: weight loss, avoiding alcohol at night, sleeping on your side.
Medical treatments: nasal sprays for allergy or congestion.
ENT surgery: septoplasty, turbinoplasty, tonsillectomy, or procedures to tighten the palate.

For Sleep Apnoea

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) – the gold standard for moderate to severe OSA.
Mandibular advancement devices – oral appliances that bring the jaw forward, suitable for mild OSA.
Surgical options – correcting nasal blockage, tonsillectomy, tongue base reduction, or other airway surgery for carefully selected patients.

Why Choose Hampshire ENT Clinics?

Expert ENT surgeons experienced in the full range of snoring and sleep apnoea treatments.
Comprehensive assessment to identify the exact cause of obstruction.
Tailored treatment plans combining lifestyle, medical, and surgical options.
Collaborative care with sleep medicine specialists when CPAP or sleep studies are needed.

Take the Next Step

If snoring or sleep apnoea is affecting your health—or your household—help is available.

📞 Contact Hampshire ENT Clinics today for a consultation and start your journey to quieter, healthier sleep.

Matt Ward