Sleep expert's warning over 'potentially serious' condition that often goes undiagnosed

A sleep specialist reveals that millions of Britons are battling a condition that countless people do not even know they have. Sleep apnoea represents a potentially dangerous sleep disorder where breathing continually ceases and resumes.

This serious yet frequently ignored ailment affects approximately eight million individuals across the UK, with a concerning one in three cases remaining undetected. Among the most prevalent warning signs is relentless snoring, typically accompanied by spluttering or suffocation throughout the evening.

These respiratory disruptions prevent you from achieving a deep sleep, potentially resulting in perpetual exhaustion. Martin Seeley, chief sleep specialist at MattressNextDay, cautions: "If you find yourself nodding off while watching TV, reading, or even stuck in traffic, it could be a sign of something more.

"The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a quick questionnaire that helps you assess just how tired you are in everyday situations and whether it's time to speak to a doctor."

When left without treatment, sleep apnoea may heighten the likelihood of grave health complications including elevated blood pressure, cardiac conditions, and diabetes, whilst potentially impacting psychological wellness too.

"The good news is that once diagnosed, sleep apnea is very manageable and many people notice a huge improvement in their energy and quality of life," Martin adds.

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To help manage symptoms of sleep apnea at home, Martin shares a few expert approved tips:

• Sleep on your side

“Back sleeping can cause your tongue and soft tissues to collapse into your airway, worsening symptoms. Try sleeping on your side instead and use a supportive pillow to maintain that position.”

• Keep your bedroom cool and dark

“Overheating at night can disrupt your sleep quality, especially if you’re already prone to breathing difficulties. Aim to keep your room at a steady, cool temperature and reduce light exposure to encourage deeper sleep.”

• Avoid alcohol before bed

“Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat, increasing the likelihood of airway collapse during sleep. If you’re prone to sleep apnea or suspect you may have it, it’s best to avoid drinking in the hours before bed.”

• Maintain a healthy weight

“Extra weight, particularly around the neck, can put pressure on your airway and increase the severity of sleep apnea symptoms. Losing just a small amount of weight can sometimes lead to big improvements in sleep quality.”

• Invest in a supportive mattress

“The position and support your mattress offers can significantly impact your breathing at night. A medium firm mattress that supports spinal alignment and reduces pressure points may help to improve airflow and reduce disturbances," Seeley. says. “Most importantly, don’t ignore the warning signs.

“If you wake up feeling exhausted despite a full night in bed, or your partner notices you snore loudly and stop breathing during the night, seek professional advice. Sleep apnea isn’t just snoring, it’s a serious health issue that deserves attention.”