Nighttime allergy exacerbations: Causes and remedies
In the quiet of the night, many people find their allergy symptoms worsening, causing discomfort and disrupting their sleep. This article aims to shed light on the reasons behind this phenomenon and provide practical solutions for managing nighttime allergies.
Common nighttime allergy symptoms include nasal congestion, sore throat, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, increased coughing, and wheezing. These symptoms can be attributed to a variety of factors, primarily the presence of allergens in the bedroom environment. Dust mites, pet dander, pollen settled on bedding or clothing, mold spores, and indoor air pollutants are some common allergens that accumulate in the sleeping environment, coming into close, prolonged contact with the respiratory system during sleep [1][2][4].
The position one adopts during sleep also plays a significant role. Lying down causes mucus to pool in the nasal passages due to gravity, leading to increased nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and coughing. This effect makes symptoms feel more intense [1][2][3].
Biological and hormonal changes also contribute to the worsening of allergy symptoms at night. At night, natural cortisol levels decrease. Cortisol has anti-inflammatory effects, so its reduction allows inflammation to worsen, intensifying allergic reactions and airway swelling [1][2][3].
Other factors include respiratory changes during sleep, temperature and humidity fluctuations in the bedroom, and allergy-related nasal inflammation, which can lead to snoring and worsened breathing difficulties during sleep due to congestion and airway narrowing caused by histamine release [5].
To combat these issues, several strategies can be employed. Keeping the humidity in the home below 50%, particularly in the bedroom, can help reduce allergens. Regularly washing bedding in hot water can help kill allergens. Closing windows can reduce the amount of pollen entering the room. Using allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses can minimize dust mite and pet dander exposure [2].
Using high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can remove airborne allergens. Keeping pets out of the bedroom can reduce exposure to allergens. Using saline nasal sprays or irrigation systems can clear nasal passages before bedtime [2].
If nighttime allergies persist or significantly impact an individual's quality of life, consulting an allergist or immunologist is advisable for allergy testing and personalized treatment options [6]. This is especially important if allergies may contribute to the development or exacerbation of sleep apnea symptoms [5].
Postnasal drip, where mucus drips from the nose down the back of the throat, can occur and lead to a cycle of coughing, sniffling, and sore throat. In such cases, it may be beneficial to sleep with the head slightly elevated to help drain the nasal passages [3].
In conclusion, understanding the common contributors to worsened nighttime allergies—environmental allergen exposure in the bedroom, positional effects on mucus drainage, and natural hormonal cycles leading to increased airway inflammation—is crucial in managing these symptoms. By implementing the strategies outlined above, individuals can improve their sleep quality and overall health.
[1] https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/allergic-rhinitis [2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergies/art-20045861 [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6670110/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7011772/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6919873/ [6] https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/allergies-and-sleep-disorders
Allergists suggest that nighttime allergy symptoms such as congestion, itchy eyes, and irritated throat can be triggered by the presence of allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores in the bedroom. The position one adopts during sleep can also exacerbate these symptoms due to gravity causing mucus to pool in the nasal passages.
Biological and hormonal changes also contribute to nighttime allergies, with natural cortisol levels decreasing, leading to increased inflammation and intensified allergic reactions during sleep. Other factors include respiratory changes, temperature and humidity fluctuations, and allergy-related nasal inflammation that may contribute to snoring and worsened breathing difficulties.
To manage nighttime allergies, strategies include keeping the humidity below 50% in the bedroom, washing bedding in hot water, closing windows, using allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, and using HEPA filters. Consulting an allergist can also provide allergy testing and personalized treatment options if symptoms persist or significantly impact one's quality of life.
Postnasal drip can occur, creating a cycle of coughing, sniffling, and sore throat. In such cases, sleeping with the head slightly elevated may help drain the nasal passages. Additionally, health-and-wellness and mental-health can be impacted by persistent allergy symptoms, making it crucial to seek therapies-and-treatments for better sleep and overall well-being.
In conclusion, understanding the factors causing worsened nighttime allergies and implementing practical solutions, such as those listed above, can significantly improve sleep quality, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall health.
