Many asthma patients report trouble sleeping. Those with allergies and asthma may not sleep an adequate amount due to congestion, secretions, snoring, nighttime coughing, wheezing and breathing issues. Untreated sleep disorders may worsen asthma and decrease your quality of life.
Researchers have found that the longer a person has asthma, the greater risk they have of developing the sleep disorder sleep apnea. One study found 27% of those with moderate to severe asthma develop sleep apnea. Sleep Apnea is a common sleep disorder in which you have one or more pauses in breathing while you sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep.
Asthma can cause inflammation. The inflammation may increase the risk of sleep apnea due to a temporary narrowing of the airways.
In December 2016, a study found that many with asthma also suffer from insomnia. Insomnia is characterized by an inability to go to sleep or to stay asleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, around 40 Million adults experience insomnia each year.
The study found that 37% of those with severe asthma have insomnia. Those with insomnia also had worse asthma control and weighed more.
Don’t wait any longer to get a medical diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. If you think you or a family member may suffer from asthma and a sleep disorder, contact our office to schedule an appointment.