Indoor Allergens and Sleep Health: How Pet Dander, Mold, and Pests Impact Your Rest
Understanding the impact of indoor allergens on sleep health is vital, based on a 2025 study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Global. This research, using data from the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), analyzed how bedroom allergen exposure affects sleep quality among 3,399 U.S. adults. It found that allergens like pet dander, fungal spores, and pests, which accumulate in bedding and dust, are linked to sleep disturbances, including trouble sleeping, frequent snoring, sleep disorders, and increased sleep medication use. The study noted that 41.2% of participants had elevated pet allergen exposure, the most common, followed by dust mites at 38.5%, pests at 24.4%, and fungal allergens at 10.0%. These findings highlight the significant role indoor allergens play in disrupting sleep health.
The study identified strong correlations between specific allergens and sleep issues, particularly for certain groups. For Hispanic/Latino adults, elevated pet allergen exposure was associated with a 74% higher likelihood of trouble sleeping and a 31% increased chance of frequent snoring. Fungal allergen exposure was linked to a 229% higher prevalence of sleep disorder diagnoses among Hispanic/Latino adults and a 472% increase in sleep medication use in this group. Women also faced notable risks, with pet and fungal allergen exposures tied to a 93% and 71% higher prevalence of sleep disorders, respectively. These disparities indicate that allergen-related sleep problems may disproportionately impact specific demographic groups, making it critical for homeowners to recognize these risks.
Conversely, elevated pest allergen exposure was associated with a 32% lower likelihood of a sleep disorder diagnosis overall, particularly among Non-Hispanic White and higher socioeconomic status (SES) groups, where it was linked to a 35% and 57% reduced prevalence, respectively. This unexpected finding suggests complex interactions, possibly related to housing conditions or healthcare access. For moderate SES groups, fungal allergens were tied to a 231% higher prevalence of sleep disorders, indicating that homes with dampness or older structures may worsen these issues. These variations emphasize the need for homeowners to consider their household and demographic context when addressing allergen-related sleep disturbances.
To better understand and manage these risks, homeowners can assess indoor air quality. EezyAir can help by providing a guided assessment, professional support, and actionable recommendations to help reduce allergens. Take charge of your home and your sleep. Click below to learn more.
