Snoring as You Get Older: What to Review

If snoring changes as you get older, it is worth reviewing the pattern rather than dismissing it as inevitable. Age can be relevant to sleep-disordered breathing, but it does not explain every new symptom or determine one treatment for everyone.

Describe what has changed

Note when the change became noticeable, whether it affects a partner and whether daytime sleepiness has increased. Include nasal symptoms and changes in sleeping position. These observations can guide a consultation without diagnosing the cause.

Bring a current medicine list

Discuss prescribed medicines and other products with your clinician or pharmacist. Do not stop a medicine because a general article suggests it might influence sleep. A review considers its purpose, alternatives and your wider health needs.

Consider individual factors

Weight, alcohol, smoking and nasal obstruction may be relevant in some people. A comfortable positional change may help some adults. Avoid stereotypes about older people’s habits or promises that exercise will cure all age-related snoring.

Arrange assessment when appropriate

Breathing pauses, gasping and significant daytime sleepiness warrant medical advice. Persistent disruption also deserves help. The aim is to identify a suitable next step, not to normalise worsening symptoms or replace established sleep-apnea care with a retail remedy.

Keep reading

• Is Worsening Snoring Just Part of Ageing?

Sources and further reading

• NHS: Snoring
• NHLBI: Sleep apnea causes and risk factors

Published by TannerMedico A/S, the manufacturer of Asonor. This article provides general information for adults and does not replace individual medical advice.