The causes of sleep apnoea are commonly grouped into three categories: general factors, nasal obstruction, and throat obstruction. General contributing factors may include increasing age, male sex, excess body weight, smoking, and alcohol use. Excess weight is a significant factor and may influence the effectiveness of some treatment options.
Nasal obstruction can contribute to breathing difficulties during sleep and is often associated with a deviated nasal septum or allergic rhinitis, although other nasal conditions may also be involved. Throat obstruction may occur due to anatomical features such as a long or low-lying soft palate, enlarged or residual tonsil tissue, or other factors including jaw position or tongue size.
Assessment by an appropriately qualified health practitioner is required to identify contributing causes and guide management.
