Universal Sleep Solutions Library
Diagnose 01 Treat 02 Pediatrics 03 Adults 04 The Lab 05 The Practice 06 Referrals 07 Library 08 Visit 09
(512) 931-1575 Pre-register

Article · 2 min read

Alcohol and Sleep Apnea

Alcohol makes sleep apnea worse. It relaxes the muscles in your airway. Learn how drinking affects your sleep and what you can do.

Medically reviewed by , board-certified in sleep medicine and pediatrics · Last reviewed

General information, not medical advice. Read our disclaimer.

SLEEP APNEA · ALCOHOL

Alcohol and sleep apnea at a glance

  • 3–4hoursNo alcohol before bedtime
  • Do not drink alcohol within 3 to 4 hours of bedtime.
  • If you drink, keep it moderate.
  • Always use your CPAP, most of all after drinking.
  • Talk with your sleep doctor about how much you drink.

See a sleep doctor if…

  • You drink and want to know how it affects your sleep apnea
  • You snore more on nights you drink

Yes. Alcohol makes sleep apnea worse. It relaxes the muscles in your airway, so your breathing stops more often and for longer.

How does alcohol affect sleep apnea?

Alcohol and sleep apnea are a dangerous mix. Even a moderate amount of alcohol can make breathing problems in sleep much worse.

Why does alcohol make it worse?

  • Relaxed muscles — Alcohol relaxes the muscles of your upper airway more than normal sleep does.
  • Slower wake-up response — Your brain is slower to notice and respond when your breathing stops.
  • Longer breathing pauses — Pauses in breathing last longer after drinking.
  • Lower oxygen levels — Oxygen drops get worse.
  • More snoring — You snore more after drinking.

What can you do?

  • Stop early — Do not drink alcohol within 3 to 4 hours of bedtime.
  • Drink less — If you drink, keep it moderate.
  • Use your CPAP — Always use your CPAP machine, most of all after drinking. It matters even more on nights you drink.
  • Be open with your doctor — Talk with your sleep doctor about how much you drink.

SLEEP APNEA · ALCOHOL

How alcohol makes sleep apnea worse

  1. Muscles relax

    Alcohol relaxes the muscles of your upper airway.

  2. Airway closes more

    Your airway closes more often during sleep.

  3. Slower wake-up

    Your brain is slower to notice breathing has stopped.

    Key point

  4. Longer pauses

    Breathing pauses last longer after drinking.

  5. Lower oxygen

    Oxygen drops get worse, and you snore more.

Watch and learn

What happens during obstructive sleep apnea50 s · narrated and captioned

Common questions

Does alcohol make sleep apnea worse?
Yes. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your throat, so your airway closes more often. It also slows how fast your brain wakes you up when your breathing stops.

Trusted medical sources

This page follows guidance and research from leading medical organizations.

AASMNHLBISleep FoundationMayo ClinicCDC

Further reading

Keep reading

Sleep Apnea and Diabetes

Sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes frequently occur together. Learn the connection between these conditions and how treatment helps both.

Sleep Apnea and High Blood Pressure

Sleep apnea is a leading cause of resistant high blood pressure. Learn how treating sleep apnea can lower your blood pressure.

When Should You See a Sleep Specialist?

Chronic snoring, insomnia, or constant fatigue? Learn the signs that it's time to see a board-certified sleep medicine specialist.

What Happens at a Sleep Clinic Appointment?

Your first sleep clinic visit doesn't have to be intimidating. Here's exactly what to expect at your sleep medicine appointment.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Learn what obstructive sleep apnea is, how it affects your health, and why treatment matters. Expert guide from a board-certified sleep specialist.

Signs You Might Have Sleep Apnea

Loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and morning headaches could be signs of sleep apnea. Learn the warning signs and when to see a sleep doctor.