Adapted from "How seasonal allergies affect sleep" from AASM Sleep Education here
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Seasonal allergies can have an impact on our ability to get a good night’s rest. By dealing with symptoms and root cause of allergies, you can help improve your sleep quality
How Allergy symptoms affect sleep
Seasonal allergies can cause a variety of symptoms that interfere with sleep, including nasal congestion, itching, sneezing, coughing, and fatigue. These symptoms can lead to mouth-breathing, worsen obstructive sleep apnea, and make it difficult to fall and stay asleep.
- Nasal congestion is a common symptom and can lead to mouth-breathing, worsen obstructive sleep apnea, and make it difficult to fall and stay asleep.
- Itching is a common symptom, particularly in the eyes and nose. This can be especially bothersome at night, making it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, scratching can lead to inflammation and swelling, which can worsen congestion and make breathing even more difficult.
- Seasonal allergies can cause sneezing and coughing, which can disrupt sleep and lead to muscle soreness and fatigue. This can impact the ability to get a good night's rest.
- Seasonal allergies can also lead to fatigue, which can make it hard to stay awake during the day and can lead to difficulties concentrating or focusing.
Addressing allergies to sleep better
To address the symptoms of seasonal allergies and improve sleep quality, it is important to reduce exposure to allergens, use medications, and practice good sleep hygiene habits:
- Stay indoors during peak allergy season, using air purifiers, or wearing a mask when outside
- Over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays can alleviate inflammation and congestion, and nasal saline spray or irrigation can flush out allergens
- Maintaining healthy sleep habits like establishing a regular sleep routine, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and creating a cool, quiet, and comfortable sleeping environment can help improve sleep quality.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article or video is intended solely for educational and general informational purposes. It does not offer medical advice or replace the professional opinion of a healthcare provider regarding the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, or management of any illness, condition, or disability. It is essential to consult a physician or a qualified healthcare professional about your specific health concerns and before implementing any new health care routines, including making changes to your diet or lifestyle.