The noise of snoring is generated by airflow trying to push its way through an obstructed airway. Whilst snoring in itself is not an illness it's symptomatic of other health conditions – one of these is an allergic reaction to an irritant.

Allergic rhinitis is a physical disease in which the membrane lining the nose and throat becomes inflamed. In most cases triggered by an allergic reaction to an inhaled substance. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is often called hayfever.

When the membrane lining the nasal passageways becomes inflamed it causes an obstruction to the airway and, as we have already established, it is only such a blockage that creates the symptom of snoring.

Seasonal allergic rhinitis is usually due to grass, tree and other plant pollens and it occurs mainly during the spring and summer when pollen counts are high. Year long allergic rhinitis, or perennial allergic rhinitis because it is also known, is more usually caused by an allergy to house dust, dust mites, animal fur, feathers or mould spores.

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are very obvious:

· Itchy, irritated nose

· Sneezing

· Blocked or runny nose

· Red, watery, itchy eyes

· Snoring

· Headache

· Nosebleeds (not common)

Should you be unable to identify the substance that is prompting the allergic reaction your doctor may carry out a skin prick test to determine just which substance is provoking such a reaction in the human body.

However, it's not uncommon for the allergen to avoid identification which leaves sufferers unable to take action to avoid whatever is causing the problem.

If the allergen can be identified and then avoided symptoms usually subside very rapidly without further treatment. However, frequently it's not so easy to avoid allergens in which case it could be necessary to take an anti-allergy drug.

Some anti-allergy drugs are available in the form of nasal sprays, often containing sodium cromoglicate, a substance that blocks the allergy. Corticosteroid drugs are often prescribed for hayfever although their effect is not instantaneous. Nasal sprays works extremely well as decongestants, but their long term use is not recommended. Oral ant-histamines may be used in conjunction with a decongestant to relieve inflammation and itching.

If allergic rhinitis is a persistent problem immunotherapy may be offered. This is the treatment that works to desensitize the immune system. Patients are injected with gradually increasing doses of the allergen to encourage the body’s own systems to adapt and accept the substance without reacting. The problem with immunotherapy is that it can take so long as four years for the treatment to be completed and it's not always successful.

If you think your snoring problem is caused by allergic rhinitis there are steps you can take to help yourself. Avoid any furry animals; replace feather filled quilts and pillows with ones containing synthetic stuffing; cover your mattress with a mite proof membrane; remove soft furnishings where possible to avoid dust collecting; avoid areas of long grass or where the grass is being cut and have your car fitted with a pollen filter.

You should find that your snoring problem diminishes or even disappears altogether.

More Snoring Articles

- Snoring Causes and Cures
- Kids Snoring and Cures
- Ways To Stop Snoring
- How To Stop Snoring
- Snoring Sleep Apnea
- Snoring Surgery Options

Important Note: You should consult your doctor if you have concerns over your health,
and the information on this site is not medical advice, and is for information purposes only.