Nighttime Asthma

Asthma Nighttime

Nearly 75% of asthma patients experience nighttime symptoms, which can also be referred to as nocturnal asthma. Your lungs function best around 4 pm and are at their lowest around 4 am. People with lower lung functions experience this change drastically. Wheezing, coughing and trouble breathing are the most common nighttime symptoms.

Triggers of Nighttime Asthma Symptoms

There are numerous factors that attribute to nighttime asthma symptoms, including: cooling of the airways, being in a reclined position, hormone secretion, and an increased exposure to allergens. There is no exact reasoning to why asthma is worse at night. Some people believe that sleep changes bronchial functions too.

Treatments of Nighttime Asthma Symptoms

The best treatment for nighttime asthma is to continue the daily use of asthma medications. These medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids help to reduce inflammation which in turn, prevents these symptoms from occurring at night. Avoiding triggers is a big way to prevent nighttime symptoms from occurring as well. Sometimes, avoiding these triggers is impossible. You will want to speak with your physician about what type of asthma you have and the severity so that the physician can help your night time symptoms.

Nighttime Asthma FAQ

What does asthma feel like in the chest?
People with asthma typically experience chest pain which can be dull or stabbing pain.
How do you get rid of tight chest asthma?
When you notice that your chest is tight, it is important to sit up and remain calm. You will want to take a puff of your rescue inhaler every 30 to 60 seconds. If you do not feel better, seek help.
Why does my asthma get worse at night?
There is not exact reason why asthma gets worse at night, but it can be attributed to an increased exposure in allergens, sitting in a reclined position, cooling of the airways, or the hormones that are secreted.
How do you treat nighttime asthma?
There is no cure for nighttime asthma, but it is important to take your daily asthma medications during the day in an effort to prevent nighttime asthma.
Why is asthma worse at night and in the morning?
There is no known reason that asthma is worse in the night and the morning, but it is thought to be caused by hormones, laying in the reclining position, cooling the airways, or an increased exposure to allergens.
How can I stop my asthma cough at night?
The best way to stop your asthma cough at night is to take your medications through the day, incline your head, use a humidifier, and reducing allergens in the bedroom.