The noise that we all associate with snoring is a results of trying to force air through block or partially blocked airways. While it isn't an illness in itself, snoring is often a symptom of other conditions one of which could be an allergic reaction.

Allergic rhinitis is a condition where the membrane lining the throat and nose becomes inflamed. It's often set off by an allergic reaction to something that is inhaled. You've probably heard of seasonal allergic rhinitis - it's more commonly known as hayfever.

When the lining becomes inflamed, it causes the airway to be blocked which can lead to snoring.

Hayfever is usually caused by trees, grass or other plant pollen and it's usually a problem in the spring and summer. If you suffer from it all year (known as perennial allergic rhinitis) it's often due to dust, dust mites, mould spores or pet fur.

The symptoms of allergic rhinitis are familiar to most people:

- itchy eyes and nose
- sneezing
- red, watery eyes
- runny or plugged nose
- headache
- and of course, snoring

If you haven't been able to figure out what's causing your hayfever, your doctor may give you a skin-prick test to determine exactly what is causing it. Even then, the cause is not always easy to determine so you may not be able to get rid of the cause.

In these cases, you'll probably turn to some type of allergy medication. The problem with these medications, as it related to snoring, is that many of them contain antihistamines.

Antihistamines are often effective at treating allergies, but they're also a depressant. As such, they can lead to the muscles in your throat and neck becoming more relaxed than normal while you sleep. When these muscles relax, it can lead to more severe snoring than normal.

If you're suffering from allergies and are snoring at night, it's best to avoid antihistamines before going to bed. If you need to use any medication, try to stick to a nasal decongestant, which can help your breathing while not contributing further to a snoring problem.

As with any health concerns, if you suspect you suffer from allergies or have a snoring problem you should always consult with a health care professional to get their informed opinion.