Key Takeaways
- Allergies do not directly cause snoring but can worsen it.
- Managing allergies through avoidance, medications, and lifestyle changes can help.
- Persistent, loud snoring with other symptoms need prompt medical evaluation.
Snoring happens when air movement during breathing causes the relaxed tissues in the throat to vibrate, creating that familiar hoarse or harsh sound. For the person who snores, it can lead to interrupted sleep. Snoring can be caused by various factors, including your sleep position, weight, and blockage in your nasal passages.
If you have a history of allergies, you might be wondering if your snoring and allergies are related. We’ll discuss their connection and ways to manage allergies in this article.
Can Allergies Cause Snoring?
Allergies themselves do not directly cause snoring, but they can contribute to snoring by causing nasal congestion and inflammation.
When allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander trigger an allergic reaction called allergic rhinitis, it leads to swelling and increased mucus production in the nasal passages [*].
This narrows the airway, making it harder for air to flow freely through the nose. Increased nasal resistance can force more air through the mouth, which then leads to vibrations and snoring.
Can Allergies Make Snoring Worse?
The nose is the primary route for breathing during sleep. Nasal congestion due to allergies can obstruct this route, causing changes in airflow which exacerbate existing snoring problems.
A study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology involving nearly 5,000 subjects found that individuals experiencing frequent rhinitis symptoms (nasal congestion due to allergies) are significantly more likely to report habitual snoring, in addition to chronic daytime sleepiness and nonrestorative sleep [*].
Moreover, it’s important to note that not all snorers have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — a sleep-related breathing disorder — although the two conditions frequently coexist [*].
How to Manage Allergies and Reduce Snoring
Treating the underlying allergies with avoidance, medications, and some lifestyle changes can help reduce snoring. Here are the steps to follow:
Determine your specific allergens
Seeing an allergist for allergy testing, such as a skin prick test or blood test, can help pinpoint the specific allergens you are allergic to. This may include things like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold.
Paying attention to when your allergy symptoms (like nasal congestion) occur can provide clues about what may be triggering your allergies, such as certain seasons, locations, or exposures.
Take steps to minimize exposure
Once you know your triggers, take steps to limit your exposure. You can start by removing allergens from your home, such as using allergen-proof bedding, keeping windows closed during pollen season, and using air purifiers with HEPA filters.
Cleaning surfaces and floors regularly also helps reduce the buildup of allergens and improves overall indoor air quality. This is particularly important not just for individuals with allergies but also for those with asthma.
Treat your allergies proactively
This involves using medications that can help reduce nasal inflammation and congestion that contribute to snoring. Options include antihistamines like levocetirizine and fexofenadine to block the histamine response, as well as nasal corticosteroid sprays.
For long-term allergy relief, your healthcare provider may recommend immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. Immunotherapy is a treatment approach that involves regular injections of allergen extracts, which gradually desensitizes your immune system to specific allergens that trigger your symptoms [*].
Related: Decongestants vs. Antihistamines
Regularly use saline nasal rinses
Saline nasal rinses or sprays work by moisturizing nasal passages and flushing out allergens, irritants, and excess mucus from the nose. This helps improve nasal airflow.
Another benefit of using saline rinses is that they complement other allergy treatments such as antihistamines and medicated nasal sprays. They can enhance the effectiveness of these medications by ensuring better delivery in the nasal passages. This, in turn, can also reduce snoring from allergies.
Stay well-hydrated
Staying well-hydrated can support respiratory health and immune function in ways that can help reduce snoring. Adequate hydration helps maintain optimal moisture levels in the nasal passages.
When to See a Doctor
You should see a doctor for snoring if it continues despite managing allergies and if it is loud, disruptive, and occurs regularly, especially if accompanied by gasping or choking sounds during sleep. These signs may indicate a more serious underlying condition such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
The Bottom Line
While allergies themselves do not directly cause snoring, they can exacerbate it by causing nasal congestion and inflammation. Managing allergies effectively through allergen avoidance, medications, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly immunotherapy can help reduce snoring associated with nasal obstruction.
Seeking medical advice can lead to proper diagnosis and treatment, which improves both your sleep quality and health.
References:
- Rhinitis, Nasal Allergy, Hayfever. (2024, April 19). Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. https://aafa.org/allergies/allergy-symptoms/rhinitis-nasal-allergy-hayfever/
- Storms, W. W. (2004). Pharmacologic approaches to daytime and nighttime symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 114(5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2004.08.045
- 4 Signs You Might Have Sleep Apnea. (2024, June 20). Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/4-signs-you-might-have-sleep-apnea
Allergies Symptoms
By Mallory A. Logsdon, PA-C
Mallory Logsdon is a Physician Assistant who has practiced Allergy & Immunology since 2013. After practicing for 10 years in Florida, she is currently employed by Allermi Medical Associates as the Director of Clinical Operations.
