In obstructive sleep apnoea the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, cutting oxygen and breaking sleep.
It is common, under-diagnosed, and can look like depression, poor memory or irritability.
Key concepts
- Not all snoring is apnoea, but loud snoring with pauses needs checking
- Diagnosis needs a sleep study
- Sleeping pills and alcohol can make apnoea worse
Symptoms and signs
- Loud snoring with pauses, choking or gasping
- Morning headache and dry mouth
- Dozing off while reading, watching TV or driving
Causes
- Narrow airway or relaxed throat muscles in sleep
- Excess weight around the neck
- Large tonsils, nasal blockage or jaw shape
Risk factors
- Obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes
- Alcohol and smoking
- Older age and male sex; women after menopause
Evidence-based management
- Sleep study and ENT or sleep-specialist assessment
- CPAP (positive airway pressure) machine for moderate–severe apnoea
- Weight loss, side sleeping, avoiding alcohol at night
When to seek professional help
- Daytime sleepiness affecting work, study or driving
- Breathing pauses noticed by a partner
- Low mood or memory complaints with loud snoring
Frequently asked questions
Can sleep apnoea cause depression?
It can cause fatigue, low mood and poor focus that look like depression; treating apnoea often improves mood.
Does a psychiatrist treat apnoea?
A psychiatrist can screen and refer for a sleep study; apnoea is usually managed with sleep, ENT or chest specialists.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- Behavioral and psychological treatments for chronic insomnia disorder in adults: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine clinical practice guideline. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 2021.
- ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics. World Health Organization.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
Related articles
Related guides
Need personal advice? Book a confidential consultation.