Asthma sufferers should avoid sleeping on their backs. This position increases their risk of developing heartburn and postnasal drip, which may trigger an asthma attack. Moreover, sleeping flat can also trigger acid reflux. Instead, keep your head slightly elevated to avoid any reflux problems. In addition, if you have asthma, you may also suffer from sleep apnea, a condition where you repeatedly stop breathing while you sleep. This disorder can exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Supine sleep position reduces asthma symptoms
The supine sleep position has been associated with a reduction in asthma symptoms. Researchers have documented the reduction in asthmatic symptoms in a 49-year-old man. The study involved polysomnography, which records brain waves, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing. Other measurements include eye and leg movements, and sleep position. Sleeping in a supine position was associated with reduced asthmatic symptoms, and was shown to reduce waking episodes and symptoms during sleep.
In a study by Watson RA and colleagues, pulmonary volumes and respiratory resistance were measured in subjects in a seated and a prone position. Researchers measured the peak expiratory flow in the seated and prone positions. The supine position was associated with a lower rate of asthma exacerbation, while the prone and LLD positions were associated with increased symptoms of asthma.
While sleeping on the supine position can be beneficial for the respiratory system, sleeping on the right side can cause asthma symptoms. A study in 1990 found that sleeping on the right side reduces ventilation, which in turn constricts airways. Additionally, many studies have found that sleeping on the back contributes to sleep apnea and snoring. Therefore, sleeping on the side may be beneficial.
In addition to the supine position, people with asthma may also experience breathing attacks during sleep. Some people with asthma report that their asthma gets worse 4 to six hours after falling asleep. Researchers have also found that people with asthma tend to have worse breathing symptoms at night than during the day. This suggests an internal trigger that is triggering a sleep-related asthma episode. While sleep-related asthma is hard to determine, there are some strategies that can help people with asthma sleep soundly.
Side sleeping reduces symptoms
Some people with asthma are surprised to learn that sleeping on their sides can improve their symptoms. This simple habit is proven to increase airway space, reduce sinus drainage, and relieve coughing. Studies have also shown that sleeping on your side reduces asthma symptoms and medication needs. It is also a good way to improve circulation. While sleeping on your side, keep in mind that you shouldn’t lie flat on your back or stomach. Acid reflux can aggravate your asthma symptoms, so don’t forget to sleep on your side!
Besides increasing oxygen levels in the body, side sleeping can reduce the frequency and severity of nocturnal asthmatic attacks. It also helps relieve the stress on the stomach caused by gastroesophageal reflux, which triggers asthma attacks. Sleeping on your side is also easier on the back, so it’s a good idea for anyone with asthma. The advantages are numerous. In addition to improving breathing, side sleeping reduces asthma symptoms by improving spinal alignment and stability.
One study in a medical journal reported a case study of a patient who slept on their side. Side sleeping reduced symptoms in this patient, and it was found to reduce nighttime medication, episodes of waking up due to asthma, and improved ability to perform daily tasks. In addition to this case study, it provides valuable information for asthmatic patients and their caregivers. This new practice is readily available in the comfort of one’s own home.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition, and treatment usually includes a combination of corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and oxygen therapy. While these treatments do help with the severity of asthma episodes, they do little to help prevent them before they start. In particular, the trigger factors for nocturnal asthma usually worsen during sleep. Fortunately, side sleeping has been found to reduce the severity of episodes by up to 75%.
Cold air can trigger asthma
The air you breathe has a great deal to do with the health of your lungs, but cold air is a prime suspect. Because cold air irritates the lining of your airways, it causes them to become inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Because of this, cold air can trigger asthma attacks in people who already have a problem. In addition to being a trigger, cold air can make asthma symptoms worse, particularly in people who are prone to bronchial inflammation. When this happens, cold air may lead to wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing.
To combat the effects of cold air, sleep with a scarf or face mask covering your mouth and nose. This will help warm the air before it reaches your lungs. Using an inhaler with leukotriene receptor inhibitors is another option. If the cold is too much for you, stay indoors when you can. Make sure your bedroom is free of irritants and pollutants. Talk to your doctor about a plan that works for you.
People with asthma may experience breathing problems during sleep. They may be more likely to experience an attack during the day than during the night. It’s thought that an internal trigger triggers the symptoms of nighttime asthma. Other factors that might play a role in nighttime asthma include obesity and GERD. Some allergens in the bedroom may also trigger asthma attacks. And while sleeping, asthmatics are more susceptible to nighttime breathing problems because they’re in a reclining position.
When winter weather strikes, people with asthma will tend to stay indoors more often. This increases the risk of exposure to indoor allergens, including dust mites. Asthma can also be triggered by smoke from a fireplace or a freshly-cut Christmas tree in the living room. Asthmatics should stay warm by wearing warm winter clothing, such as a warm coat, a scarf, gloves, and hat.
Sleeping on your left side can cause heartburn
While sleeping on your back is not advisable if you have asthma, lying on your left side can ease the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux and asthma. Lying on the left side allows gravity to work in your favor, helping your digestive system alleviate the stress placed on it during digestion. Sleeping on your left side can also help support your back and improve posture. You can also try adding a pillow between your legs to support your spine and prevent airway constriction.
Although sleeping on your left side is not the best choice for many people, it may help relieve the symptoms of asthma and GERD during the night. It is also advisable to sleep on your left side, with your torso elevated. By doing so, you can ensure that gravity keeps your stomach contents down. An elevated bed may also help. However, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms.
Temperature in the bedroom
The temperature in the bedroom can play a crucial role in controlling asthma. Keeping the room temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit is crucial. People with asthma should not sleep with pets, and their bedroom should be free of dust mites, pollen, and other allergens. Keep asthma medications nearby and take them according to your doctor’s advice. Sleeping upright and using a pillow behind the shoulders will help keep airways open and decrease the chance of hyperventilation.
Dust mites and other allergens can trigger an asthma attack during the night. To reduce the chances of a future asthma attack, regularly wash bedding. Hot water kills dust mites. Drying bedding on high heat also helps kill allergens. Bedding that is damp is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Closing the bedroom door is also recommended.
Another reason for a high temperature in the bedroom can be a trigger. Cold air is also dry and can irritate airways, worsening symptoms. If you have a dry cough, consider buying a humidifier. Another cause of asthma-provoking nights is a high pollen count in the air, which you can solve by closing windows and putting a humidifier in the bedroom. If you’re suffering from allergies, you may also want to consider taking antihistamines or an over-the-counter asthma remedy to reduce allergy symptoms.
Air conditioning is another cause of asthma-triggering episodes. It’s also important to keep the bedroom temperature at a comfortable level. Cool air can reduce the chances of an asthma attack, while warm air may trigger an attack. Besides, sleeping in a reclining position is a significant stressor, resulting in added pressure on the chest. Try elevating your shoulders with a pillow or laying on your side with a pillow between your legs to keep a comfortable sleeping position.
