Sleep is a critical part of maintaining good mental and physical health. However, chronic sinus problems can get in the way of getting a good night’s rest. Let’s look at ways to manage your sinus issues and sleep better.
Why Sinus Problems Make It Hard to Sleep Well 
If you are suffering from a sinus infection or congestion caused by a cold or another virus, it can make it difficult to breathe through your nose. To compensate, you may start breathing through your mouth when you sleep, which makes it more likely that your jaw and tongue will fall back and block your airway. This increases your risk of snoring and even obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Research has shown that chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) worsens sleep quality and is strongly associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea can lead to symptoms like daytime fatigue and morning headaches and increase your risk of more serious conditions like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Tips For a Better Night Sleep
If you’re having chronic sleep issues due to your sinuses, schedule an appointment with an ear, nose and throat specialist. You may have a condition like chronic sinusitis or structural issues like a deviated septum or nasal polyps that require medications or sinus surgery to relieve your symptoms.
Additionally, there are several things you can do at home to help manage your symptoms and get better sleep, including:
- Take an antihistamine at night. If allergies contribute to poor sleep, an antihistamine can help reduce symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. Additionally, many have the side effect of making you feel drowsy, which can help you sleep. Your doctor may write you a prescription or recommend an over-the-counter antihistamine that you can find at MG Pharmacy or other Phoenix drugstores.
- Regularly moisten nasal passages. A dry nose can increase irritation and make it difficult to sleep. Consider using a nasal saline spray or a neti pot to keep your nasal passages moistened and clear. You can also use a humidifier when you sleep to avoid dry air.
- Create an ideal sleep environment. Make your bedroom both sleep and sinus friendly. This can mean regularly washing your bedding to remove allergens and propping up your head when you sleep to help with nasal congestion. It also means keeping your bedroom dark, cool and free of distractions like phones or tablets.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to evaluate your sinus symptoms, contact Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists today.
