Is Snoring Dangerous? Signs of Sleep Apnea and Lung Conditions
Snoring is very common and often considered harmless, but persistent or loud snoring can be a sign of an underlying sleep or respiratory condition.
Snoring occurs when airflow is partially blocked during sleep, causing the tissues in the throat to vibrate. Factors such as nasal congestion, excess weight, alcohol consumption, and sleeping position can worsen snoring.
In some cases, snoring is linked to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. People with sleep apnea may also experience choking or gasping at night, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Certain lung conditions, including asthma and COPD, can worsen oxygen levels in people with sleep apnea, increasing their risk of comorbidities including cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death.
If snoring is loud, chronic, or associated with fatigue and breathing pauses during sleep, medical evaluation is recommended. A pulmonologist can assess breathing patterns, recommend a sleep study, and determine appropriate treatment options.
