Can asthma or COPD affect sleep?
Can Asthma or COPD affect my sleep?
Yes, having asthma or COPD can make it harder to sleep. These conditions can cause breathing problems that might wake you up during the night or make it difficult to fall asleep. Here’s some simple advice to help improve your sleep if you have asthma or COPD. If you need extra help, we’re here for you. Simply self enroll for medication support, you can also call us at (410) 348-1905 or send us an email.
What nighttime problems can happen with asthma or COPD?
Waking up during the night can occur when you are having an asthma flare or if you have COPD. You might wake up because of coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, nasal congestion, or heartburn. People with these conditions are also more likely to have sleep apnea, which causes snoring and short pauses in breathing while you sleep.
How can I sleep better with my asthma and/or COPD?
- Manage your lung condition: Make sure your asthma or COPD is under control with the right medications and treatments. Your doctor can help you come up with a plan.
- Treat other issues: If you have problems like nasal congestion or heartburn, treating those can help improve your sleep.
- Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting can make a big difference for your breathing and sleep.
- Get checked for sleep apnea: If you think you might have sleep apnea, talk to your provider. It’s a treatable condition that can improve your sleep and health.
- Try breathing techniques: Techniques like pursed-lip breathing can help make it easier to breathe if you wake up breathless.
- Change your sleep position: Sleeping flat on your back can make breathing harder. Try using pillows to raise your head, which can help open your airways.
Breathing well but still struggling to sleep? Try these tips for better rest
1. Sleep-Tracking Apps
- Sleep Cycle: This app tracks your sleep and wakes you up during light sleep. Free version with premium options available.
- Pzizz: A mix of music and soothing voiceovers to help you fall asleep faster. Free version with in-app purchases.
- Calm or Headspace: Both offer free guided meditations and sleep stories, with more content available in premium versions.
2. Affordable Sleep Accessories
- Blackout Curtains: Keep your room dark to improve sleep quality. Find budget options on Amazon or Walmart starting at $20.
- Sleep Masks: A cheaper solution to block out light, with options starting at $5 on Target.
- White Noise Apps: Use White Noise Lite for free, or purchase a white noise machine for around $20 to block out sounds that disturb your sleep.
3. Room Temperature Control
- Portable Fans: If your room gets too warm, cooling it down with a fan can help. Fans are available for as low as $20 on Amazon or Walmart.
- Heating Blankets: For those who prefer warmth, you can find electric blankets starting around $30 at Ikea.
4. Budget-Friendly Bedding
- Anti-Allergy Pillow Covers: Help prevent allergens from disrupting your sleep. These covers can be found for about $10 on Amazon.
- Mattress Toppers: If a new mattress is out of your budget, mattress toppers can offer comfort and support. Affordable options range from $40-100 on Walmart.
Watch the video below to get coach chrystals advice on breathing techniques that can help calm you down before bed!
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