Allergies under control… but still not sleeping well?
Dr. Martin Hopp MD, ENT
Congestion, nasal blockages, and post-nasal drip can all interfere with nighttime breathing. Treating these allergy-related symptoms often improves sleep. But if you’re managing your allergies and still find yourself snoring, waking up tired, or dealing with morning headaches, another condition may be at play: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
The Overlap Between Allergies and Sleep Apnea
Allergies and sleep apnea can look similar. Both may cause restless nights, snoring, and daytime fatigue. It’s easy to assume persistent symptoms are simply “allergy-related” and stop there. Unfortunately, that can be a costly mistake. If the real cause is undiagnosed OSA, it can impact your energy levels, mood, and health for years.
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to repeated pauses in breathing. Each time oxygen levels drop, the brain briefly wakes the body, even if you don’t remember it. These micro-awakenings can happen 5 to more than 100 times an hour, making restorative sleep nearly impossible.
Studies suggest that up to 80% of people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed. Left untreated, OSA often worsens over time and can increase risks to both physical and mental health.
Why Testing and Diagnosis Matter
When allergy care improves your breathing but you’re still not sleeping well or feeling energized, the next step is a sleep test. Without testing, it’s impossible to know whether symptoms like fatigue and snoring are truly allergy-related or signs of sleep apnea. An At-Home Sleep Test from Daybreak offers a simple, convenient way to get answers and begin the path toward better health.
There’s More Than One Way to Treat OSA
After diagnosis, treatment should be tailored to your needs. CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is the most commonly prescribed therapy for sleep apnea, but it isn’t the right fit for everyone. For people with allergies, CPAP masks and forced air pressure can aggravate nasal congestion, dryness, or irritation making it harder to use nightly. And without consistent use, CPAP cannot provide its full benefits.
Oral Devices: A Comfortable Alternative
For many patients, especially those with allergies, oral appliances for OSA offer an effective and comfortable alternative. These small, custom-made devices fit like a retainer and work by gently repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. Unlike CPAP, oral appliances do not require mask or hoses, and they are easy to wear and clean. Because they are less intrusive, devices like Daybreak's make it easier to stay consistent with treatment. This consistency is what restores sleep and health. Combining OSA treatment with allergy management ensures the best chance for restful, effective sleep.
The Bottom Line
Testing gives you answers about your sleep health, and answers open the door to quality sleep to fuel your days.
Whether you’re wondering why you’re constantly tired or already diagnosed with OSA and looking for an alternative to CPAP, knowing your options is key to making the best decisions for your well-being.