Allergies and Sleep

What are Allergies?

Allergies are caused when someone comes in contact with a particle that reacts with their body to release a chemical that cases nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes and a runny nose. Some common allergens are dust mites, pollen, molds, grasses or pet dander. Allergies may occur seasonally or year-round, depending on their cause.

How do Allergies affect your sleep?

Allergies and sleep

  •  59% of people with nasal allergies say they have trouble sleeping. – Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
  • 48% say their sneezing and sniffling also disturb their bed partner’s sleep

Allergies cause swelling of the nasal passages that leave less room for air to move freely and obstructs your breathing. Gravity is also a foe of allergies when you lay down at night you cause the congestion to shift, hindering your breathing even more. Lack of sleep can be linked to fatigue and daytime sleepiness as well as decreased productivity at work or school, impaired learning and memory, depression, and a reduced quality of life.

What can you do?

There are some steps you can take in order to regain control of your sleeping habits during allergy season.

  1. Shower before bed
  2. Wash pets regularly
  3. Keep windows closed
  4. Keep your sheets clean
  5. Crank up the dehumidifier
  6. Keep your indoor air clean
  7. Avoid caffeine late in the day
  8. Consider anti-allergy bedding
  9. Avoid allergens when possible
  10. Keep bedroom cool, dark and quiet
  11. Try drinking tea to loosen congestion
  12. Give cats and dogs to nighttime boot
  13. Vacuum carpets and furniture regularly.
  14. Skip the nightcap but not your night time meds
  15. Power down electrical devices 1 hour before bed
  16. Regularly change sheets, pillows, and pillowcases
  17. Know when it is time for a new mattress and pillows
  18. Use vacuums and air cleaners rated for their ability to remove allergens
  19. Check your home’s heating and air system and consider an upgrade with better air filtration, if needed.

Find Relief from Allergies While You Sleep

IDLife sleep strips are a natural sleep aid that helps you fall asleep faster, stay asleep and awake refreshed without that drowsy feeling you get from most sleep aids. Mint-flavored sleep strips melt in your mouth to deliver a complex of nutrients. L-Theanine and 5HTP are used in a triphasic approach to support all stages of the sleep cycle.

Would you like to try IDLife Sleep Strips

Contact Dr. Galioto directly or visit IDLife.com

Download our Insomnia tip sheet

 

Allergies and Sleep