What Is Snoring? Causes, Sleep Apnea Signs and Treatment
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Snoring is the noise made when relaxed tissues in your throat vibrate as you breathe during sleep. It often becomes worse when your airway narrows. Snoring does not always mean you have sleep apnea, but breathing pauses, gasping or daytime sleepiness are reasons to speak with your doctor.
Updated: 13 October 2026. General information; this article does not replace medical advice.
In this guide
What is snoring?
During sleep, muscles supporting your throat relax. Air moving through the narrower space can make surrounding tissues vibrate, producing snoring. The noise can be quiet or loud. According to the Sleep Health Foundation, about 15% of people snore on most nights.
What causes snoring?
Several factors can narrow your airway or make its tissues more likely to vibrate:
- Sleeping on your back.
- A blocked nose, allergies or a cold.
- Alcohol or some medicines that relax throat muscles.
- Extra weight around the neck.
- A naturally narrow airway or enlarged tonsils.
- Pregnancy.
Are there different types of snoring?
Terms such as nasal, mouth or tongue-based snoring describe possible contributors. They do not establish a diagnosis. A blocked nose can encourage mouth breathing; sleeping on your back can allow your tongue to move backwards. The sound alone cannot tell you whether you have sleep apnea.
What is the difference between snoring and sleep apnea?
Snoring is a sound. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is repeated partial or complete airway blockage during sleep. OSA can reduce airflow, lower oxygen levels and interrupt sleep. Someone with OSA may not notice these episodes.
Possible warning signs include breathing pauses noticed by a partner, choking or gasping, waking unrefreshed and difficulty staying awake during the day. Read the Sleep Health Foundation's OSA guide.
How can you reduce snoring?
Treatment depends on the cause. Steps that may help include:
- Try sleeping on your side.
- Avoid alcohol for at least four hours before bed.
- Ask a pharmacist or doctor about nasal congestion and allergies.
- If you are overweight, discuss weight management with your doctor.
- Discuss medicines that may worsen snoring with your prescriber.
If symptoms continue, seek assessment before choosing a device. A dentist-fitted oral appliance may help some people. CPAP may be recommended for diagnosed OSA. Healthdirect explains snoring treatment options.
How can snoring affect sleep?
Snoring can disturb your partner or household. The health risks linked to untreated OSA, including high blood pressure and accidents caused by sleepiness, should not automatically be attributed to ordinary snoring.
What if snoring starts during pregnancy?
Snoring can become more common during pregnancy. Tell your maternity care provider about new or worsening snoring, especially if it comes with breathing pauses or daytime sleepiness.
When should you see a doctor about snoring?
See your GP if snoring disrupts your household or you have signs of sleep apnea. Your partner's observations can help. A clinician may recommend an overnight sleep study, at home or in a sleep laboratory, depending on your needs.
Do not drive if you feel sleepy. Persistent daytime sleepiness needs medical assessment. Learn more about sleep apnea symptoms and diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions about snoring
Does everyone who snores have sleep apnea?
No. Snoring can occur without sleep apnea. Breathing pauses, gasping and daytime sleepiness make assessment particularly important.
Can a home sleep test check for sleep apnea?
A home sleep study can help assess suspected OSA in suitable patients. Your clinician can advise which test is appropriate and interpret the results.
Do I need a CPAP machine for snoring?
Not necessarily. CPAP treats OSA by keeping the airway open with pressurised air. Assessment should guide treatment.
What is your next step?
Concerned about snoring? Start with your GP. For information about testing and equipment support in New South Wales, contact NSW CPAP or call 1300 414 190.
Already diagnosed and advised to use CPAP? Explore our CPAP machines and speak to our team about equipment support.