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Warning-sign checks

Snoring: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if someone has severe trouble breathing while awake, has blue or grey lips, cannot be woken normally, or has breathing that does not restart promptly.

    These are not typical features of simple snoring.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical advice if sleepiness is creating a driving, machinery, or workplace safety risk.

    Do not drive or do hazardous work while struggling to stay awake.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if snoring is frequent, very loud, getting worse, or affecting your sleep or relationships.

    You should also arrange an assessment if another person notices breathing pauses, gasping, or choking.

    Make an appointment if you regularly wake with headaches or feel unrefreshed, irritable, forgetful, or sleepy during the day.

    A child who snores regularly should be discussed with a healthcare professional, especially if there is mouth breathing, disturbed sleep, behavior change, or difficulty concentrating.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Snoring. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.