Snoring occurs when airflow through the respiratory tract is obstructed, causing soft tissues in the throat to vibrate and produce sound. While almost anyone can snore, it often occurs more frequently when individuals are tired, consume alcohol, or experience nasal congestion. These conditions cause throat muscles to relax excessively or temporarily narrow the airway, increasing soft tissue vibration and leading to snoring.

Dr. Do Thi Thao, from the Cardiology Department at Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic, notes that while snoring is common, it is not always a medical concern. However, persistent snoring can indicate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome, a disorder that significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Individuals with OSA typically snore loudly every night and experience intermittent pauses in breathing during sleep. This often manifests as a sudden silence for several seconds during snoring, caused by an obstructed airway, followed by gasping, snorting, or choking before normal breathing resumes. Many patients are unaware of these episodes, which are frequently observed by their bed partners. Common daytime symptoms include morning headaches, persistent fatigue, excessive sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, impaired memory, and increased irritability.

Doctor Thao examines and advises a patient on sleep apnea. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Repeated airway obstruction during sleep leads to significant drops in blood oxygen levels throughout the night. The brain constantly triggers brief awakenings to restore breathing. This prolonged stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system results in a rapid heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and an increased workload on the heart.

OSA syndrome significantly impacts sleep quality and elevates the risk of hypertension, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction. This risk escalates with the severity and duration of the condition if left undiagnosed and untreated.

Dr. Thao observes that many individuals are diagnosed with OSA only after seeking treatment for chronic hypertension or recurrent atrial fibrillation. Without simultaneous diagnosis and treatment, OSA can diminish the effectiveness of blood pressure management, impose additional strain on the heart, and adversely affect long-term cardiovascular treatment outcomes.

Dr. Thao recommends early medical consultation for individuals experiencing persistent snoring, particularly if it is accompanied by significant daytime sleepiness or if family members report observing breathing pauses during sleep. High-risk groups for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome include those who are overweight or obese, have a large neck circumference, are middle-aged men, regularly consume alcohol, or have a history of hypertension. Screening for this condition is also advisable for patients with hypertension that is difficult to control despite treatment, or those with existing conditions such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, or a previous stroke.

Doctors may recommend polysomnography or other sleep assessment methods to identify the underlying cause. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

Ly Nguyen