Allergies and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are two common health conditions that can significantly affect daily life. Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to substances like pollen, while OSA involves repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep due to a blocked airway. Though these conditions may seem unrelated, some research suggests a connection between the two.
Severe allergies can worsen OSA symptoms, and untreated OSA may, in turn, aggravate allergic responses. Let’s explore the research behind this link and review practical strategies for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
The Research
A 2023 study examining the link between allergies and sleep-disordered breathing in children found a correlation between the severity of allergies and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
OSA, allergies and asthma are closely connected through shared respiratory pathways. Allergies can cause nasal congestion and upper airway inflammation, which increases the risk of developing OSA.
The study also found that OSA may contribute to the development and worsening of both allergies and asthma. In particular, the habitual snoring associated with OSA can lead to poorer asthma control, increasing airway inflammation and creating a cycle where all three conditions influence one another.
The researchers concluded that these conditions should be managed together. Rather than treating each in isolation, they recommend a comprehensive, integrated approach to care.
Managing Allergies and OSA
The first step towards managing your allergy and OSA symptoms is to make an appointment with one of our ENT and sleep specialists. We can identify the underlying causes and define the best treatment path, including but not limited to:
- Managing allergies through medication (antihistamines, nasal sprays, etc.) or immunotherapy (a long-term allergy treatment)
- Managing OSA with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, nasal breathing strips, oral mouth guards, surgery or the Inspire Procedure (an implantable device that monitors your breathing as you sleep)
Your sleep is too important to be continuously disrupted. Rather than reaching for a third latte from your favorite Sandy Springs coffee shop, schedule an appointment with one of our ENT or sleep specialists to put a little extra rest into your nights.
