As flowers blossom and trees sprout new leaves, the beauty of spring brings with it a less welcome companion familiar to many—seasonal allergies. For the millions experiencing sleep apnea, this time of year can present unique challenges. The unrelenting congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes typical of seasonal allergies can exacerbate the symptoms of sleep apnea, leading to restless nights and groggy days. What causes this to arise, and even more crucially, what actions can you take in response?

The Connection Between Seasonal Allergies and Sleep Apnea

Unfortunately, sleep apnea is an all too common condition characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while sleeping. This frequently leads to a decrease in sleep quality and, consequently, affects overall health. Seasonal allergies can worsen these symptoms due to nasal congestion and inflammation of the airways, making it harder for air to flow freely during sleep. This not only intensifies the symptoms of sleep apnea but can also make it more challenging to manage.

Allergies cause the body to release histamines, which lead to the swelling of nasal passages. For those with sleep apnea, this means that the already compromised airway is further narrowed, making it even more difficult to breathe at night. This can result in more frequent awakenings and a decrease in the restorative deep sleep stages, leaving you feeling less refreshed in the morning.

Managing Allergies to Improve Sleep Apnea

The good news is, there are steps you can take to mitigate the impact of seasonal allergies on sleep apnea:

• Allergen Reduction: Begin by minimizing your exposure to allergens. Keep windows closed during high pollen days and consider using air purifiers in your bedroom to filter out allergens. Regularly wash bedding in hot water to remove allergens and consider using dust mite-proof covers for pillows and mattresses.
• Medication: Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription allergy medications can help reduce nasal congestion and inflammation. Nasal corticosteroids and antihistamines are particularly effective. However, it’s essential to seek advice from your healthcare practitioner before starting any new medication, especially if you are already using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea.
• Nasal Irrigation: Saline nasal sprays or neti pots can help clear the nasal passages of allergens and mucus. This can be a natural and effective way to reduce nasal congestion and improve breathing at night.
• Maintain CPAP Cleanliness: For those using a CPAP machine, ensuring the device is clean and well-maintained is crucial. Replace filters regularly and clean the mask and hose to prevent the buildup of allergens that could exacerbate symptoms.
• Professional Consultation: If allergies significantly impact your sleep apnea, it might be time to consult with an allergist or a sleep specialist. We can offer personalized advice and treatment options, such as immunotherapy for allergies or adjustments to your sleep apnea treatment plan.

Embracing Spring with Open Arms (and Clear Airways)

While seasonal allergies can be a nuisance, especially for those with sleep apnea, they don’t have to dictate the quality of your sleep or life. By understanding the link between the two and taking proactive steps to manage allergies, you can enjoy the beauty of spring without losing sleep over it. Remember, the goal is to breathe easily, sleep well and wake up ready to enjoy the season to its fullest. If you have further questions or sleep apnea concerns, we welcome you to give us a call!