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Get a Professional Referral for Sleep Apnoea at Hume Dental Group

Sleep apnoea is a serious medical condition that can impact your health and quality of life if left unmanaged. Common symptoms such as loud snoring, frequent awakenings, constant tiredness, and trouble focusing during the day can affect your wellbeing and daily performance. At Hume Dental Group, our experienced team can help identify potential signs of sleep apnoea and refer you to the right medical professional for diagnosis and tailored treatment.

If you’re struggling with symptoms or suspect sleep apnoea might be the cause of your disrupted rest, we’re here to guide you toward the care you need.

What Is Sleep Apnoea?

Sleep apnoea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, temporarily blocking the airway and causing breathing to stop for short periods—usually between 10 seconds and a minute. These pauses in breathing cause the brain to briefly wake the body, often accompanied by gasping or choking sounds. This cycle can repeat dozens of times each night, leading to poor sleep quality, fatigue, and other health complications.

It’s also commonly linked with loud, persistent snoring that can disturb both the person affected and their sleeping partner.

Common Causes of Sleep Apnoea

Several factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnoea, including:

• Genetic predisposition – Family history of airway structure issues can make someone more prone.
  
  
• Obesity – Excess fat around the neck and throat may obstruct the airway.
  
  
• Enlarged tonsils or adenoids – These can physically block airflow, especially in children.
  
  
• Nasal congestion or sinus problems – Breathing through the mouth increases the chance of throat collapse during sleep.
  
  
• Throat growths – Polyps or benign masses may interrupt airflow.
  
  
• Anatomical factors – Such as a small jaw, thick neck, or large tongue.
  
  
• Other contributors – Alcohol, sedatives, smoking, ageing, and certain medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
  
  

Symptoms to Watch For

Some of the most common signs of sleep apnoea include:

• Loud snoring, especially if it's followed by choking or gasping
  
  
• Waking frequently through the night without knowing why
  
  
• Morning headaches
  
  
• Persistent fatigue and sleepiness during the day
  
  
• Difficulty concentrating or irritability
  
  
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
  
  

If these symptoms sound familiar, it's important to seek advice. At Hume Dental Group, our team can conduct an initial assessment and refer you to a trusted medical provider for a formal diagnosis and sleep study.

Is Snoring Always a Sign of Sleep Apnoea?

Not always—snoring can be caused by other factors such as nasal congestion or sleep position. However, if your snoring is loud, consistent, and accompanied by daytime exhaustion or breathing interruptions during sleep, it may be time to investigate further.

The Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnoea

Ignoring sleep apnoea can lead to serious long-term health issues, including:

• High blood pressure
  
  
• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
  
  
• Type 2 diabetes
  
  
• Acid reflux (GERD)
  
  
• Mood disorders and memory problems
  
  
• Hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism
  
  

Because many people with sleep apnoea don't remember waking at night, they may not realise there's a problem. That’s why early detection and referral are so important.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnoea

The right treatment depends on the cause and severity of your condition. After a confirmed diagnosis from a sleep specialist, treatment options may include:

• CPAP machines – A device that delivers steady airflow through a mask to keep the airway open while sleeping.
  
  
• Lifestyle changes – Weight loss, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol can significantly help.
  
  
• Nasal sprays – Helpful if sinus blockage is a contributing factor.
  
  
• Oral appliances – Custom-fitted devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to maintain airflow.
  
  
• Surgery – In cases where enlarged tonsils or excess throat tissue is obstructing breathing.
  
  

Sleep Apnoea Assessment at Hume Dental Group

If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnoea or have been told you snore heavily, it’s time to take action. At Hume Dental Group, we can help guide you toward a proper diagnosis and refer you to a medical professional who can confirm and treat the condition.

Contact our clinic today to schedule a consultation and start sleeping—and living—better.