Allergic rhinitis is a very prevalent disease in developed nations and has been increasing throughout the world. Nasal congestion is one of the most common and bothersome symptoms of rhinitis in both children and adults. Congestion is associated with sleep-disordered breathing and is thought to be a key cause of sleep impairment in rhinitis. The end result is decrease in quality of life and productivity and increased daytime sleepiness.

Treatment with intranasal corticosteroids has been shown to reduce nasal congestion. Data on sleep-related endpoints from clinical trials of intranasal corticosteroids indicate that this reduction is associated with improved sleep, reduced daytime fatigue, and improved quality of life. Other therapies, such as montelukast, also have a positive influence on congestion and sleep, while still other therapies for rhinitis do not affect either symptom.

This review examines nasal congestion and the associated sleep impairment with allergic rhinitis. It explores the adverse effects of disturbed sleep on patients’ quality of life and how these disturbances can be reduced by therapies that address nasal congestion.