Snoring is usually quite regular, but with sleep apnoea, snores are punctuated by frequent pauses in breath, often for several seconds at a time. Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnoea. As you fall asleep, the throat muscles relax and begin to collapse inwards, partially or completely blocking the airway.
Eventually, falling oxygen levels prompt the body to restart breathing, usually with a loud snort or gasp. These episodes aren’t usually enough to awaken the sufferer but can occur multiple times an hour and prevent them from reaching deep, restful sleep. Consequently, people with sleep apnoea will frequently wake up feeling ill rested, tired and irritable. Other signs include a dry mouth when you awaken and having a morning headache.