Difference between Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options Prof Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty Dr.Mohanty’s Speciality ENT Clinics Sleep is an integral part of our living. Good quality sleep ensures a healthy body and mind. However, not everyone experiences sound sleep. One third of the population suffers from snoring, causing discomfort not only to themselves but also to others. Snoring usually becomes more serious with age and can lead to adverse medical conditions. What Causes Snoring? Snoring occurs when the flow of air through the mouth and nose is physically obstructed. Air needs to pass through the passages of nose, throat and back of the tongue to enter the windpipe and lungs to ensure sufficient oxygen supply for the body. If any of the passages are narrow, adjoining soft tissues of the throat and tongue collapse, leading to vibration and subsequent sound of snoring. What is Sleep Apnea? The collapse of the soft tissues of the throat and tongue can ...