2026-04-29 13:05:13

Snoring could signal a serious and potentially deadly condition.

Doctors say three key warning signs could mean something dangerous is going on.

Heavy snoring combined with gasping for air, choking sounds, or pauses in breathing during the night could point to Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, a condition linked to heart disease, stroke and even dementia.

Dr Ryan Chin Taw Cheong, a consultant at University College London National Health Service (NHS) Hospitals, said: “In the past, we would look at sleep deprivation as a badge of honour.

“But the culture has shifted to prioritise sleep as a foundation of health.

“Snoring used to be dismissed but there is now more awareness that troublesome snoring can be a sign of serious or deadly conditions.

“Good sleep is the foundation of all health.”

The condition occurs when the throat narrows or closes during sleep, briefly stopping breathing and triggering loud snoring.

Daytime symptoms can include exhaustion, brain fog, mood swings and difficulty concentrating. Some research suggests sufferers are up to 10 times more likely to be involved in car accidents.

Alanna Hare said: “Patients themselves aren’t necessarily aware of the signs and think it’s part of normal ageing to be tired or forgetful.

“Many are embarrassed by snoring and reporting it to a GP might feel difficult.”

Experts say the condition is often undiagnosed, with more than 2.5 million Brits thought to be living with it unknowingly.

Treatments range from lifestyle changes like weight loss to medical devices such as CPAP machines, which keep airways open during sleep.

Doctors urge anyone with severe snoring symptoms to seek help.

Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)