Allergies can make everything more difficult, including getting a good night’s sleep. Symptoms like nasal congestion can make breathing difficult and lead to increased snoring and other sleep issues.
Common Allergy Symptoms That Lead to Snoring
If you have allergies, your body mistakes a substance like pet dander or pollen as something harmful and mounts an immune response whenever it comes into contact with that substance. During this reaction, chemicals are released that lead to allergy symptoms like:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
These symptoms can cause more frequent and louder snoring, as well as impact your overall sleep quality.
Allergies, Snoring and Sleep Apnea
A study in 2011 examined the relationship between allergic rhinitis and developing obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Participants included 80 patients who had been diagnosed with simple snoring and OSAS and were asked about allergy symptoms as well as given radioallergosorbent test (RAST) and prick tests to test for allergies. Results showed that:
- 23% of patients had allergic rhinitis.
- Dust mites (commonly found in bedding) were the cause of allergies in 72% of those patients.
Researchers recommended that allergy symptoms like sneezing and nasal congestion or obstruction be considered when discussing snoring issues with sleep patients.
Managing Allergies for Better Sleep
Sleeping well is essential for our mental and physical health. Not getting enough sleep or developing obstructive sleep apnea can put you at an increased risk for health issues like frequent daytime fatigue, depression and even heart problems like high blood pressure.
If allergies are exacerbating your snoring symptoms, treating them can help reduce your symptoms and help you sleep better. Suggestions include:
- Use an air purifier in your bedroom.
- Keep your door and windows closed.
- Avoid spending time at outdoor Salem spaces like Riverfront City Park when pollen levels are high.
- Don’t let your pets sleep in your bedroom, and wash your hands after you pet them before going to bed.
- Take your clothes and shoes off when you come inside and put your clothes directly in the laundry.
- Shower before going to bed.
- Take your allergy medication at night to ensure the dose is strong when you go to bed.
- Visit an allergist if at-home treatments aren’t effective to see if prescription allergy treatments or immunotherapy are right for you.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms, call Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery today.
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