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Clues it may start in the NOSE
- Blocked nose most nights, or one side always blocked.
- Mouth open and dry mouth on waking.
- Snoring is worse during colds or allergy season.
Clues it may involve the PALATE or TONSILS
- Loud, fluttering snoring even when the nose feels clear.
- Large tonsils, or a history of frequent throat infections.
Clues it may involve the TONGUE BASE
- Snoring mainly when lying on your back.
- Snoring gets much worse after alcohol or a heavy late dinner.
Warning signs of sleep apnea
- Someone has seen you stop breathing, gasp or choke in sleep.
- Daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, or waking up to pass urine at night.
- High blood pressure that is hard to control.
What to do next
Try side-sleeping and avoid alcohol close to bedtime. If you ticked any warning sign, or snoring is loud most nights, see an ENT. An airway examination, sometimes with a small camera, and a sleep study (often done at home) can show where the airway narrows.