Symptom 6: Difficulty Sleeping Due to Breathing Problems
Asthma can cause difficulty sleeping due to breathing problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can be exacerbated at night, leading to disrupted sleep and reduced quality of life. Sleep disturbances can also contribute to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating during the day.
There are several reasons why asthma symptoms may worsen at night. These include exposure to allergens or irritants in the sleeping environment, hormonal changes that affect airway inflammation, and lying down, which can put pressure on the chest and make breathing more difficult.
To improve sleep quality and manage nighttime asthma symptoms, it’s important to follow a prescribed treatment plan and establish a consistent sleep routine. Identifying and addressing triggers in the sleeping environment, such as dust mites, pet dander, or mold, can also help alleviate nighttime symptoms. (6)