Banjara Hills Medical Experts Warn Chronic Allergies Disrupt Sleep and Mental Health

Medical experts in Banjara Hills have warned that chronic allergies cause severe, far-reaching effects on sleep, mental health, and daily productivity, extending far beyond typical physical symptoms. Dr. Sai Sundeep Chodisetti, a consultant interventional pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist at Renova Century Hospitals in Banjara Hills, and Dr. Pragya Rashmi, a consultant psychologist at Yashoda Hospitals, highlighted how persistent allergic inflammation creates an ongoing physiological and psychological burden for sufferers.

According to Dr. Chodisetti, respiratory allergies frequently worsen at night because allergens like pollen, dust mites, mould, and pet dander trigger airway inflammation. This nighttime inflammation leads to nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, coughing, and wheezing, which disrupt the ability to fall and stay asleep.

Dr. Rashmi explained that chronic symptoms like sneezing, itching, and sinus pressure produce an ongoing psychological burden. This burden, combined with sleep disturbance and immune-brain signalling through inflammatory cytokines, increases the risk of mood and anxiety symptoms.

The resulting sleep deprivation diminishes slow-wave and REM sleep, which are essential for mood regulation and cognitive repair. Dr. Chodisetti noted that allergic rhinitis and asthma are common causes of daytime fatigue, lack of concentration, and reduced productivity. Adults often report difficulty concentrating at work, while children may struggle at school.

Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable as these disruptions can impact play, academic performance, and emotional control during critical developmental stages. Dr. Chodisetti pointed out that warning signs of severe impact include frequent night-time awakenings, loud snoring, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

To manage these symptoms, the experts recommended reducing exposure to triggers by keeping windows closed, using air purifiers, washing bedding regularly, and maintaining a dust-free bedroom, alongside following prescribed medical treatment plans.