Staff file photo Susan Raschal, D.O., is a board certified allergist in the Chattanooga area.Q: Could my allergies have an effect on how well I sleep?
A: Allergic rhinitis occurs when allergens in the air are breathed by someone who is allergic to them, irritating and inflaming the nasal passages. Allergens may include dust mites, pollen, molds, pests or pet dander. In people who are allergic, these particles trigger the release of chemicals in the body, causing nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose and itching of the ears, eyes, mouth and nose, to name a few. Among other things, these symptoms can lead to poor sleep, which can result in significant daytime sleepiness and fatigue.
Allergic rhinitis (allergies) may occur year-round or seasonally. When it occurs seasonally, it is usually caused by airborne pollen from trees, grass, ragweed or spores from outdoor mold. Causes of year-round allergic rhinitis include indoor substances such as pet dander, indoor mold, cockroach droppings and dust mites.
Sleep problems are common in people who suffer with allergic rhinitis. One study found the degree of sleep impairment is related to the severity of their rhinitis symptoms. In addition, sleep problems are linked with fatigue and daytime sleepiness as well as decreased productivity at work or school, impaired learning and memory, depression and a reduced quality of life.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a potentially serious sleep disorder. It causes repeated interrupted breathing during sleep. There are several types of sleep apnea, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnea. This type of apnea occurs when your throat muscles intermittently relax and fail to hold the airway open during sleep. A noticeable sign of OSA is snoring. People with OSA may suffer from severe daytime sleepiness and other chronic health problems such as heart disease, stroke and sexual dysfunction. Reduction of nasal inflammation may reduce symptoms of snoring and OSA, as well as daytime fatigue and sleepiness, according to at least one study.
Research suggests that allergic rhinitis is a risk factor for snoring and OSA among children. According to published research in the medical field, snoring and other sleep problems are linked with poor performance in school and lower IQ.
There is a solution. Seek the expertise of a board-certified allergist who will listen, perform appropriate testing and seek a mutually acceptable and potentially effective management plan.
- Susan Raschal, DO, Covenant Allergy and Asthma Care; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society