Where does Allergy Management Fit in Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Purpose of the review: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and allergic rhinitis (AR) are common airway disorders which often coexist. The effect of nasal allergy symptoms and treatment for AR on sleep parameters and OSA has been studied. The purpose of this review is to present recent data on the role of allergy management on the treatment of OSA. Recent findings: Recent literature supports the use of second-generation antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids and/ or immunotherapy to reduce the inflammatory conditions in the nose, reduce nasal resistance and improve CPAP use. The impact of allergic rhinitis on sleep testing is unknown and may worsen the diagnosis of OSA, resulting in false positive and false negative results. A meta-analysis of recent surgical literature found that correction of nasal deformities and reduction of nasal resistance through nasal surgical interventions resulted in reduced nasal resistance and improved compliance of nasal CPAP. Summary: The complex relationship between OSA and allergic rhinitis has been examined. Patients with OSA benefit from recognition of AR and treatment of the nasal airway for improved CPAP compliance and airway inflammation.