Many of us suffer from daytime allergies this time of year. The grass and tree pollen in western North Carolina is moderate to high for weeks in a row. We know the effects this has on us during the day, but did you know that pollen can wreak havoc on your sleep, causing snoring and exacerbating sleep apnea?
DAYTIME ALLERGIES AND SLEEP
Nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms caused by allergens. When we don’t breathe well at night, we toss and turn, resulting in a miserable night’s sleep. Sufferers of clogged breathing passageways may experience snoring, or in more severe situations, sleep apnea. A poor night’s sleep doesn’t set us up for a good day ahead and what’s more concerning is those of us who develop sleep apnea are dealing with a serious disorder that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
IMPROVING SLEEPING CONDITIONS
Practicing better sleep hygiene is a great way to lessen allergy symptoms. Sleepy hygiene includes less blue light before bed, establishing a regular bedtime. It also includes making adjustments like these:
- Take a decongestant at nighttime
- Dust ceiling fans
- Wash bedsheets and pillowcases frequently
- Close your windows
- Raise the head of your bed a few inches
Try implementing new habits like these and see if you find relief from seasonal aggravations.
WHAT IF THAT’S NOT ENOUGH?
Maybe you’ve tried the most common ways to combat allergies at night but to no avail? There are plenty of people out there who aren’t alleviated by these tips. Maybe it’s time to visit us to discuss the possibility that you have sleep apnea.
WHAT IF IT’S SLEEP APNEA, NOT DAYTIME ALLERGIES?
At Asheville Dental, we offer a comfortable alternative to those suffering from sleep apnea. It’s the Mandibular Advancement Splint. Imagine a two-piece mouth guard that tilts your jaw forward, bringing your muscles and tongue along with it to clear the obstruction. It gives you the freedom to drink, roll on your side, and get up without having to remove a mask in the middle of the night. Better yet, it could save your life.
Don’t let daytime allergies get in the way of your life any more than they already do. If you think you may be snoring or experiencing sleep apnea due to seasonal allergies, contact us for an appointment. We want you to wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep regardless of what time of year it is.
