Allergic Rhinitis 101: Why You Always Wake Up Stuffy

If you find yourself waking up with a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, or constant sneezing, you're not alone. Many Filipinos experience these symptoms regularly but simply chalk it up to “sipon” or the effects of aircon. However, if these symptoms happen often, you might be dealing with allergic rhinitis. 

What is Allergic Rhinitis? 

Allergic rhinitis is a condition where your immune system reacts to allergens like dust mites, mold, pollen, or pet dander. Your body sees these substances as threats, even if they’re harmless, and responds by releasing histamines — the culprit behind that runny nose or itchy throat. 

Some people experience symptoms all year round (perennial allergic rhinitis), while others only deal with it during certain times of the year (seasonal rhinitis). Either way, it can seriously affect your comfort, focus, and even sleep.

Why Mornings Are the Worst 

Have you ever noticed how you wake up feeling congested, but feel a bit better later in the day? That’s because allergens tend to build up overnight. Your bed, pillows, and mattress are a hotspot for dust mites. The cooler temperature of your room, especially with air-conditioning, can also dry out or irritate your nasal passages. This triggers a stronger reaction as you sleep and often leads to a blocked or runny nose by morning. 

Is It Really Just Sipon? 

It’s easy to confuse allergic rhinitis with a common cold, especially since the symptoms can be similar. But unlike a cold, allergic rhinitis doesn’t come with fever or body aches and doesn’t go away after a few days. It tends to stick around for weeks, even months, and often returns when you’re in certain environments, like a dusty room or your bedroom. 

When to Get Checked 

If you’ve been dealing with these symptoms for a while, it’s time to consider getting tested. Many people live with allergies without realizing it, thinking it’s just part of life. But with the right guidance and treatment, you can breathe better and feel more comfortable every day. 

At HealthFirst Clinic, we offer allergy consultations and tests that can help you identify your specific triggers. Whether it’s dust, food, or something in your environment, knowing what causes your reaction is the first step to finding relief. 

Start Breathing Easy 

You don’t have to keep waking up stuffy. With the right care, allergic rhinitis is manageable and often, the solution starts with getting checked. 

Book your allergy consultation with HealthFirst Clinic and start your journey to clearer mornings and better days. 

Sources: 

• American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) 

• World Allergy Organization (WAO) 

• Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (PSAAI)