Habitual snoring is often taken as a joke, but it can signal a serious problem: sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS).
What is sleep apnea?
During sleep, the upper airway repeatedly collapses, causing pauses in breathing.
Warning signs
Loud snoring, pauses witnessed by a partner, daytime sleepiness and morning headaches.
Why it matters
Untreated apnea is linked to high blood pressure and higher cardiovascular risk.
Treatment
From postural measures to CPAP or surgery in selected cases.