ALLERGIES, NASAL CONGESTION, AND SLEEP
Impairing the quality of life of approximately 50 million Americans, nasal allergies are expected to affect as many as 30 percent of adults and up to 40 percent of children worldwide. Aside from nasal congestion and itchy, watery eyes—that means disturbed sleep for millions of people. Here’s a look at how allergies affect your sleep and what you can do to sleep better.
HOW ALLERGIES AFFECT YOUR SLEEP
When allergens are present, your immune system responds by releasing chemicals that create inflammation in your nose. This can cause nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. All of these symptoms narrow your nasal airways, making it difficult to breathe, especially when you’re lying down.
Allergies can either affect you seasonally or chronically: allergens like pollen are the main culprit when it comes to seasonal allergies. But if your allergies flare year-round, then indoor allergens, such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold, may be lurking inside your home. When either seasonal or indoor allergens enter your bedroom, getting a good night’s sleep can be challenging.
TIPS FOR SLEEPING BETTER WITH ALLERGIES
The first step to sleeping better with allergies is to minimize your exposure to allergens. This might mean cleaning your bedroom a certain way or keeping an eye on your local allergy forecast. At night, you might consider supplementing your allergy medicine with nasal strips to help open your nasal passages while you sleep. This will help you sleep better so you’re good to go the next day.