Have you been tossing and turning at night because of snoring, then finding yourself exhausted and irritable during the day? You may be suffering from sleep apnea — a sleep disorder affecting millions of people around the world. But did you know there could be a link between sleep apnea and allergies? Quite interesting, isn’t it? Let’s delve into this and understand the connection between the two.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where the individual’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. These interruptions in breathing can last from ten seconds to over a minute and may occur hundreds of times during the night, leading to disturbed sleep.
The Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Allergies
Allergies can cause inflammation and blockage in the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing — and in some cases, sleep apnea. A research study at the University of Chicago found that allergic reactions could indeed increase the risk of sleep apnea.
Identifying the Signs of Sleep Apnea
Understanding if you have sleep apnea can be difficult if you sleep alone, as the most prominent signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, choking, and gasping for air during sleep. However, other symptoms may include daytime sleepiness, irritability, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating.
Identifying Allergies
Common signs of allergies include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, red, itchy or watery eyes, wheezing, and hives. If your allergies are severe, they can cause inflammation in your nose or lungs, leading to sleep apnea.
Treating Sleep Apnea and Allergies
At Bend Headache Center, we offer non-surgical and drug-free solutions to relieve the pain and discomfort of chronic headaches, migraines, or TMJD that might occur as a result of sleep apnea. We also provide treatment options for sleep apnea itself. Our approach is to deliver personalized treatments that go beyond treating symptoms—our goal is to improve our patients’ overall quality of life.
Conclusion
There is a clear link between sleep apnea and allergies, and managing your allergies can help reduce sleep apnea symptoms. If you’re experiencing symptoms of either condition, don’t hesitate to seek help or explore treatment options. Bend Headache Center is here to assist you on the journey towards better health. Remember, a good night’s rest is not just about feeling refreshed—it is crucial for our overall well-being.
