Learn how to get a restful night’s sleep during allergy season.
People who suffer from seasonal allergies often experience itchy eyes, a stuffy nose, and nonstop sneezing. However, a bad night’s sleep with limited rest may be an unexpected and disruptive symptom for many allergy sufferers. Unfortunately, allergies can negatively impact sleep, but there are steps you can take to minimize symptoms before bedtime and improve the quality of your sleep.
Seasonal allergies affect 40% of the population. From being woken up by sneezing to having trouble breathing while trying to fall asleep, sleeping with allergies is no fun. Allergies and sleep seem to have a direct correlation, as those who suffer from severe allergies have worse sleep patterns and are prone to sleep disorders.
How do Allergies Affect Sleep?
As allergy symptoms worsen, people are more likely to notice difficulty sleeping. The most common sleep issues in those with allergies include:
- Insomnia
- Trouble falling asleep
- Trouble staying asleep
- Increased snoring
- Risk for sleep apnea
- Short or interrupted sleep
Tips for Better Sleep With Allergies
The good news is a good night’s sleep with allergies is possible. Follow these steps for a restful night’s sleep.
1. Keep your bedroom clean and allergen free
It can be hard to keep your room free from allergens, as furniture, stuffed animals, curtains, and just about anything in your bedroom can collect dust or different allergens. Besides dusting every day, there are some steps you can take to minimize the dust and debris in your bedroom, like showering before bed, removing outside clothes before entering the bedroom, and keeping the bedroom windows closed.
2. Use air purifiers
With the correct air filtration, your household air can be free from allergens like mold, dust mites, pet dandruff, and even pollen brought in from outside, providing immediate relief within your home.
3. Take medication at night
Instead of only taking medication in the morning when you wake up not feeling well, incorporate allergy medication into your nighttime routine. This will help prevent the medication from wearing off in the middle of the night.
It is important to note we recommend speaking with your physician before starting any medication or changing your current routine.
4. Visit physician
Allergy relief doesn’t just involve over-the-counter medication or lifestyle adjustments; physicians can provide personalized treatments for your specific needs.
Dangers of Lack of Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for your mental wellbeing, daytime productivity, quality of life, and overall health. Lack of sleep can have negative impacts on your:
- Mood
- Physical performance
- Decision making
- Immune system process
If you or a loved one are experiencing severe allergy symptoms, from trouble breathing to dazed consciousness, and need immediate relief, NW Indiana ER & Hospital has you covered! Our expert team provides treatment quickly to have you feeling better in no time. Open 24/7/365, your neighborhood ER & hospital is always here to provide the compassionate care you deserve.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, NW Indiana ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.