Tips For Relieving Nighttime Allergies During Sleep
Do you wake up in the middle of the night sneezing, coughing, or struggling to breathe? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people suffer from nighttime allergies that disrupt their sleep and affect their overall well-being.
Let's have a look at why allergies often worsen at night and what you can do about it. We'll focus on how different pillows, pillow fillings, and mattresses can help relieve allergies during sleep, highlighting Putnams' product range. We'll also cover various types of allergy free pillows, anti allergy mattresses, and cushions available to help you make an informed decision.
"The UK has some of the highest prevalence rates of allergic conditions in the world, with over 20% of the population affected by one or more allergic disorder". (M. L. Levy, 2004)
Why Are Allergies Worse at Night?
Dust and Mould in the Bedroom
Your bedroom might be harbouring allergens like dust mites and mould, which thrive in dark, humid environments. Dust mites can live in your mattress, pillows, and even on your carpets, causing your allergies to flare up when you lie down.
Mould spores, often found in older homes or after water damage, can also trigger allergic reactions.
Lying Down and Gravity
When you lie down, gravity causes mucus to pool in your throat and nasal passages, making it harder to breathe. This can exacerbate symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and congestion, making your allergies feel much worse than they do during the day.
This is when particular attentions should be paid to pillow material and shape, as this can make a significant difference to a restful night's sleep with allergies.
Pet Dander and Pollen
If you allow pets in your bedroom, their dander can accumulate on your bedding, triggering allergic reactions. Pollen from outside can stick to your clothes, skin, and hair, and make its way into your bed, causing nighttime allergy symptoms. Hay fever sufferers can be particularly prone to this scenario.
"Social behaviour has changed and today people spend on average 90% of their time indoors. Our indoor environments are often poorly ventilated causing humidity to rise and creating ideal conditions for mould and house dust mites to thrive in our soft furnishings and bedding. We are a nation of pet lovers, with our pets often living indoor which can also add to allergens in the indoor environment."
How Allergies Affect Sleep Quality
Insomnia and Restlessness
Allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and congestion can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can lead to insomnia, restless sleep, and frequent awakenings during the night.
Daytime Fatigue and Sleep Apnoea
Poor sleep caused by allergies can result in daytime fatigue, making it hard to concentrate and perform daily tasks. Allergies can also worsen conditions like sleep apnoea, leading to more severe health issues like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
Benefits of Hypoallergenic Bedding
Hypoallergenic Pillows
Using hypoallergenic pillows can significantly reduce your exposure to allergens. These pillows are made from materials that resist dust mites, mould, and other allergens, helping you breathe easier at night. Putnams offers a range of hypoallergenic pillows designed to provide maximum comfort while keeping allergens at bay.
Allergen-Resistant Mattresses
Investing in an allergen-resistant mattress can make a world of difference in your sleep quality. These mattresses are crafted from materials that don't harbour dust mites and mould, ensuring a cleaner, healthier sleeping environment.
Putnams' hypoallergenic mattresses are designed to provide optimal support and comfort, reducing the risk of allergy flare-ups.
Sleep Naturally: How Organic Bedding Can Transform Your Health
Choosing the Right Pillows and Cushions
Types of Pillow Fillings
Different pillow fillings offer various levels of comfort and allergen resistance. Here are some popular options:
- Memory Foam: Provides excellent support and is naturally resistant to dust mites.
- Graphite Latex: Hypoallergenic and durable, graphite latex pillows are a great choice for allergy sufferers.
- British Wool: 100% British wool pillows & duvets. Wool is natural, biodegradable & hypoallergenic. British wool is naturally resistant to dust mites, mould, and mildew, making it ideal for people with allergies or asthma. All Putnams wool is OEKO-TEX 100 British wool, meaning it has been tested to prove it contains no harmful substances to human health.
- Organic Buckwheat Hull Pillows: Buckwheat hulls are naturally resistant to dust mites and other allergens.
Buckwheat Hull Pillow 5 star Review - "Perfect fit, no allergic reaction
Organic Buckwheat Hull Pillow 100% Cotton Cover
You. Can adjust it to your requirements and not suffer from any allergies." - Zeina T
Pillow Shapes and Sizes
Choosing the right pillow shape and size can also help alleviate allergy symptoms. Consider options like:
- Contour Pillows: Designed to support the natural curve of your neck, reducing pressure and improving airflow.
- Wedge Pillows: Elevate your upper body, helping to reduce congestion and improve breathing.
- Body Pillows: Provide full-body support, which can be beneficial for those with multiple allergy symptoms.
Exploring Different Mattress Options
Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Memory foam mattress toppers are known for their excellent support and hypoallergenic properties. They conform to your body's shape, providing customised support and reducing the risk of allergens accumulating in your mattress or mattress topper.
Graphite Latex Mattress Topper
Graphite latex mattress toppers are another excellent option for allergy sufferers. They are naturally resistant to dust mites and mould, making them a healthier choice for your bedroom.
British Wool Mattress Toppers
The all natural Putnams British Wool Topper includes 100% cotton covering (OEKO TEX standard 100) and British wool means the finished product is anti-allergy, temperature regulating & moisture wicking. Perfect for a restful natural night's aleep.
Practical Tips for Allergy-Free Sleep
Wash Bedding Regularly
Washing your bedding in hot water can help eliminate dust mites and other allergens. Aim to wash your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets at least once a week.
Use Pillow and Mattress Covers
Investing in hypoallergenic pillow and mattress covers can add an extra layer of protection against allergens. These covers act as a barrier, preventing dust mites and mold from settling into your bedding.
Keep Pets Out of the Bedroom
While it may be tough to keep your furry friends out of the bedroom, doing so can significantly reduce your exposure to pet dander. Create a cosy sleeping area for your pets in another room to minimise allergens in your bedroom.
Optimising Your Sleeping Environment
Use an Air Purifier
Air purifiers can help remove allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air. Place an air purifier in your bedroom to improve air quality and reduce allergy symptoms.
Control Humidity Levels
Keeping your bedroom's humidity levels in check can help prevent mold growth. Use a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels and reduce the risk of mold-related allergies.
Keep Bedroom a Clutter Free Zone
Besides the zen relaxation aspect of a clutter free zone there are beneficial practicalities for allergy sufferers. Avoid stuffed toys, ornamental cushions and stacks of old books - these are all dust magnets.
Keep Windows Closed
While fresh air is great, opening windows can allow pollen and other outdoor allergens to enter your bedroom. Keep windows closed, especially during high pollen seasons, to minimise allergen exposure.
"The percentage of children diagnosed with allergic rhinitis and eczema have both trebled over the last 30 years." (Gupta R, 2007)
Enjoy a Restful Night's Sleep with a Little Planning!
Allergies can significantly impact your sleep quality and overall well-being. However, by making informed choices about your bedding and sleeping environment, you can alleviate nighttime allergy symptoms and enjoy a restful night's sleep.
"My house dust mite symptoms are at their worst when I go to bed… I physically cannot sleep… it’s just that bad." William's story.
Putnams offers a range of hypoallergenic pillows, mattresses, and bedding products designed to help you sleep better and breathe easier. Explore our product line and discover how we can help you achieve allergy-free sleep.
Sleep soundly and wake up refreshed with Putnams. Ready to make a change? Discover our range of hypoallergenic products today and take the first step towards better sleep and improved health.
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