Do Allergies Cause Snoring?
Roughly 40% of adult men and 24% of adult women are habitual snorers. Snoring can be the result of improper sleep position, irregular mouth anatomy, or obesity- just to name a few various causes.
What many people don’t know is that their snoring may be caused by an allergy, or even allergic rhinitis. The allergies themselves don’t cause snoring, but the problems they cause—namely blockage of the airway—certainly can.
Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever, affects anywhere from 40-60 million Americans each year. Springtime can be especially problematic, as this is when plants began to germinate and the air is full of pollen and spores. Some allergies, mostly environmental or airborne, occur seasonally while others, like those found in the home, can occur year round. Cigarette smoke, perfume, and exhaust can also act as allergens and cause breathing problems.
When a person breathes in a substance that they are allergic to, the nasal passages become irritated and inflamed. This appears in the form of an itchy or runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Pollen, mold, pet dander, and dust mites are the most common allergens.
If you have trouble breathing during the day, there is a good chance that this may affect your snoring at night. Many allergies sufferers complain of fatigue, and understandably so: it can be very difficult to fall asleep when you’re struggling to find the right position to breathe!
When you experience allergies, nasal inhalation can become wheezy or whistling, and your nose may become so blocked that you’re forced to breathe through your mouth while you’re sleeping. When the incoming air collides with your soft palate, this creates the sound we associate with snoring.
It’s best to always have your snoring assessed by your physician or an ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor), as snoring can sometimes be something more serious and life threatening. If your snoring is caused by persistent nasal congestion, Turbinate Reduction can be an effective, simple, and painless solution.
For more information on allergies and snoring, or to schedule a consultation, call Marvel at 931-455-2005.
