- Difficulty breathing. A stuffy or runny nose can be very inconvenient when you are trying to get some shut-eye. If you’ve ever had the experience (and who hasn’t?), you know exactly what we mean. According to the article “Combat Allergy Fatigue” on the Everyday Health site, Dr. Park, author of the book “Sleep, Interrupted,” explains how having a stuffy nose is similar to sleep apnea in the respect that “When your nose gets stuffy, your tongue starts to fall back, creating a vacuum effect in your throat. So you keep waking up, because you can’t breathe.” And when you keep waking up, you end up exhausted the next day.
- Pain. Sinus pressure can often cause pain in your forehead and face. A stuffy or runny nose leads to post-nasal drip that can make your throat dry and scratchy. None of these conditions are conducive for a good night’s rest.
- Sinus medication. Restlessness and inability to sleep are common side effects of many medications. For some people, even the medication intended to make you drowsey can actually keep you up. If you are having trouble sleeping while taking meds, consult your doctor or pharmacist to see they might be to blame. You may have change when you take the medication or even stop taking it completely.
Sleep deprivation is frustrating, for sure, and can actually be dangerous, too. WebMd explains the following effects of chronic sleep deprivation:
- Decreased performance and alertness
- Memory and cognitive impairment
- Stress on relationships
- Poor quality of life
- Health issues including heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity
- Occupational injury
- Automobile injury
You could continue taking sinus or allergy medication while looking for the one that relieves your symptoms and doesn’t have side effects. Or, you can make an appointment at CT Sinus Center and let us help you find permanent relief and a good night sleep.
When you first come in, our expert team will talk to you about your symptoms and medical history. Next, through our patient-centered philosophy and up-to-date diagnostic tools, we will find the right treatment for your lifestyle. You may even be a candidate for one of our two outpatient procedures, both of which will end your suffering in around an hour:
- Balloon Sinus Dilation, which will reshape your nasal passages, promoting draining and natural healing
- Turbinate Reductions, in which the tissue in the nose that supports the nasal passages is decreased, decreasing the size of the turbinate and quickly increasing airflow
Call 860-BALLOON to schedule an appointment at one of CT Sinus Center’s four conveniently-located offices, and spend your nights catching z’s instead of counting sheep.
For more information on sinus– and allergy-related conditions and treatments, visit the CT Sinus Center website and blog.
