Living with asthma can be difficult, especially if it is unmanaged. Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing can make it difficult to get a good rest. Asthma may impact your ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, and get quality sleep. For many people, symptoms arise when they go to bed. Individuals who experience this condition require asthma treatment to prevent further health complications. You may wonder, “Why does asthma get worse at night?” We address this question below and provide additional information to help you determine which treatment will best improve your sleep.
Why Does Asthma Get Worse at Night?
Asthma getting worse at night is a common pattern for people affected by asthma. Nocturnal asthma involves waking up frequently at night due to asthma symptoms. The condition can significantly impact your quality of life in various ways. For so many people with nocturnal asthma, they experience low energy throughout the day. Daytime fatigue can lead to issues with concentration and moodiness. Without treatment, it can increase your risk of serious asthma attacks. Below are common reasons why asthma gets worse at night.
Lying Down Triggers Symptoms
When you lie down to sleep, it is easier for mucus to build up in your airways. Additionally, post-nasal drip and acid reflux worsen when lying down. These can trigger several asthma symptoms. Sometimes people eat too close to bedtime, and the pressure from a full stomach can impact the lungs. Addressing any underlying issues, such as GERD or sinus problems, is important. It is also important to avoid eating at least three hours before you go to bed. If you still experience asthma symptoms that get worse at night, contact a pulmonologist for support.
Natural Body Rhythms
Your body has an internal clock referred to as a circadian rhythm. This is on a 24-hour cycle. Your circadian rhythm affects several bodily functions. This includes hormone levels, body temperature, and airway function. Your body produces less cortisol at night. Cortisol is a hormone that helps reduce inflammation. Without a natural anti-inflammatory, your airways can become inflamed at night. This can make it harder to breathe and exacerbate asthma symptoms. If you experience symptoms that get worse at night, especially breathing, it is important to get asthma treatment right away.
Indoor Triggers
Indoor triggers are more common at night. Most people spend six to eight hours in their bedroom at night sleeping. In many cases, indoor spaces are filled with several asthma triggers. Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollen can trigger symptoms at night. To avoid nighttime flare-ups, keep your indoor space clean. This includes cleaning soft surfaces, such as carpet, bedding, and drapes. If you have hard floors, sweep and mop frequently. Avoid sleeping with pets or keeping them in your room, especially at night. Keep an air purifier in your room as well. If you maintain a very clean space and still experience symptoms, it is worth contacting a pulmonologist for support.
Sleep Environment
Temperatures naturally fall at night. Cooler temperatures can cause your airways to tighten. This is often exacerbated if you use the air conditioner at night. Cool temperatures in the evening can lead to wheezing or coughing. In addition to the cool air, dry climates can further irritate the airways. For many people, sleeping in a cool environment is essential for quality sleep. Consult with a pulmonologist experienced in asthma treatment to figure out how you can get quality rest free from asthma symptoms.
Certain Medical Conditions
Other medical conditions can make asthma worse at night. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing stops and starts repeatedly throughout the night while you sleep. This can exacerbate asthma symptoms as it impacts the airways. Allergic rhinitis is another condition that can trigger asthma symptoms. It is a nasal allergy that worsens when lying down. Lastly, insomnia causes increased stress due to a lack of sleep. Stress and poor mental health can trigger asthma symptoms. Asthma treatment is necessary, in addition to managing any underlying health conditions.
Poorly Managed Asthma
If your asthma is not managed well, your lungs are put under intense stress. This can exacerbate nighttime symptoms. It is highly common, as 75% of people with asthma report symptoms at night. If you do not take your medication regularly, use your inhaler incorrectly, or do not have a treatment plan at all, this is a serious health issue. Untreated asthma or poorly managed asthma can lead to serious health issues. Commit to a treatment plan that works for you to ensure your short and long-term health.
When to See a Pulmonologist
Dealing with asthma symptoms can be extremely difficult. You may wonder when to consult a pulmonologist. If you wake up more than twice a week with asthma symptoms, it is time to make an appointment. Additionally, if you need to use your rescue inhaler at night, consulting a pulmonologist can help improve your symptoms. They can create a customized treatment plan based on your unique needs. There are several indications that it is time to contact a medical professional for help.
- Frequent coughing or wheezing at night
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Daytime fatigue
- Increased use of a rescue inhaler
- Asthma flare-ups even after taking asthma medication
Asthma Treatment Appointment
If you experience any of the symptoms above, it is time to schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist. During the appointment, the pulmonologist will review your medical history, discuss your sleep habits, and ask about your current symptoms. Breathing tests will also be done, including spirometry or peak flow monitoring. The pulmonologist may also check for allergies, GERD, or sleep apnea. These can worsen asthma symptoms and also require treatment.
Once they have identified the cause of your nighttime asthma, a customized treatment plan will be created. Treatment can take several forms, as each patient is uniquely different. You may need to take different medication or adjust your current medication. If you have an underlying medical condition that is causing the nighttime symptoms, you will need to get treatment for that as well. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in asthma treatment. You may need to improve your sleeping environment to promote quality sleep.
Top Pulmonologist
If you have asthma symptoms that flare up at night, contact the team at Dr. Mayank Shukla Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule a consultation!
