Sinus Allergies and Snoring: The Connection

Mechanism of Allergic Rhinitis and Snoring

Allergic rhinitis causes nasal airflow obstruction, which is a major symptom of both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, leading to mouth breathing and altered airflow patterns during sleep, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1
The inflammatory response in allergic rhinitis causes swelling of nasal mucosa, further narrowing nasal passages and increasing airway resistance, as reported by the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1
Patients with allergic rhinitis commonly present with secondary complaints of mouth-breathing, snoring, and symptoms of sinusitis, as noted by the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy 3

Severe allergic rhinitis has been associated with disordered sleep in as many as 76% of patients, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3

Seasonal allergic rhinitis is caused by IgE-mediated reactions to seasonal aeroallergens like tree, grass, and weed pollens, as reported by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 3
Perennial allergic rhinitis is caused by year-round allergens such as dust mites, molds, and animal dander, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 3
Mixed rhinitis is a combination of allergic and nonallergic rhinitis, noted in approximately 44% to 87% of patients with allergic rhinitis, as noted by the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy 4

Family history of atopy is a risk factor for allergy-related snoring, as reported by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 4
Elevated serum IgE levels are associated with an increased risk of allergy-related snoring, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 4
Positive allergy skin prick tests are a risk factor for allergy-related snoring, as noted by the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy 4
Perennial exposure to allergens causing chronic nasal inflammation increases the risk of allergy-related snoring, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3
Priming effect, or repeated allergen exposure, can increase sensitivity and worsen symptoms over time, as reported by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1