[srd]

Is it known if there are ways to support the cleanup process?

I ask because due to allergies I have constant sinus congestions and as a result a very light sleep. On average I wake up (to the point where I'm consciously aware that I'm awake) 2 to 4 times per night, persumably due to lack of oxygen.

I'm noticing memory issues; and while the process may not be reversable, I would like to halt it or at least slow it down as much as possible.

[dbbolton]

My dad and I are in a similar situation to you- terrible nasal congestion constantly interfering with sleep.

The quick and dirty solution is decongestants. However, vasoconstrictors (pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline, phenylepherine, etc.) often have a "rebound effect", i.e. when they wear off you find you're actually more congested than you were before you took the drug. In this sense they can be quite addictive. I try not to use any unless it's absolutely necessary, and only once every few days at that.

One thing that helps a little bit is Breathe Right nasal strips. They will often open up the nasal passages enough that I no longer have to struggle to breathe through my nose. If I'm only slightly congested, I use these. I don't know if the increased air flow would be enough to keep you asleep or not, but it's probably worth a try.

For the most part, I have pretty much adapted to function on a few hours' worth of sleep. I can go on a three hour nap twice a day for an indefinite length of time. I don't know if that is enough rest to fully clean up the brain, but I don't feel crappy all the time so I suppose it's good enough. It definitely works better for me than sleeping for 6 hours once a day. I typically sleep in on the weekends, but I recently saw an article claiming that isn't enough to erase slept debt accumulated during the week.

[lee]

I have sleep apnea and use a CPAP machine nightly. My CPAP device comes with a humidifier chamber to keep the humidity of the air I breathe in high.

One of the side-effects of using a CPAP machine is that sinus congestion never bothers me as long as I have the device on. It provides enough pressure that my sinus are forced to remain open when turned.

So maybe look into using a CPAP machine to help you out.

[aestra]

Have you seen a doctor about this?

I know they have CPAP machines which have a heated humidifier, which I presume will keep your congestion under control over the course of the night and your airways open.

I'm no doctor, so go talk to yours and go see a sleep specialists to see why you are awaking in the middle of the night.