Why Do My Sinuses Bother Me at Night?

iStock 1053928776 1 Quality sleep is a must-have if we want to have a good quality of life in general. For many people, sinus symptoms are keeping them awake night after night, or preventing them from sleeping soundly. If you tend to feel fine when you go to sleep but then wake up feeling clogged, you may want to know why. Here, we will discuss a few reasons why sinus symptoms could flare up at nighttime, and what you can do to improve your sleep.

The Environment

The sleeping environment is paramount to the quality of our z’s. Sinus symptoms could worsen at night if pets share the bed. The fur from our furry besties can irritate the sinuses throughout the night if we have the slightest allergies. Another environmental factor that affects the sinuses is humidity. Dryer air can irritate the sinuses, so it may be beneficial to place a humidifier in the bedroom to decrease or prevent congestion and pressure. 

Hydration

Just like dry air can influence sinus pressure and congestion, so can a dehydrated body. Drinking plenty of water during the day provides the body with the water it needs to complete its functions well. One of those functions that is reliant on adequate hydration is the moisturizing of the skin, hair, nails, eyes, sinuses, and nasal passages. If you feel congested but blowing your nose does not produce any mucus, dehydration could be contributing to your sinus irritation. 

Gravity

The simple act of lying down to sleep for 7 to 9 hours puts the body in a unique position for drainage. When we lie down, gravity enhances the circulation of blood to the head. This alone could lead to a feeling of congestion. Gravity is also involved in the sinuses draining when we lie down. This is one reason so many people notice post nasal drip when they’re trying to go to sleep. While the force of gravity is a constant, if congestion is bad enough, it could help to sleep with the head slightly elevated. 

Alleviate Sinus Problems 

At St. Louis Sinus Center, we help patients get to the bottom of their sinus problems so they can sleep better, feel better, and live better. We offer professional care from two friendly offices in St. Louis and Festus, MO. Contact us at 314-582-0888 to schedule your consultation with Dr. James Gould.

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