Nocturnal Asthma
Worsening of asthma at night is very common. Many factors may contribute to the increased symptoms, including:
- Exposure to allergens in the bedroom, particularly dust mites
- Delayed allergic response, which may occur three to eight hours after exposure
- Chronic sinus problems and/or post-nasal drip
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Airway cooling from a drop in body temperature
- Decreased effect of medications during early morning hours
- Sleep apnea - brief, repetitive cessation of breathing during sleep caused by an upper airway obstruction
Actions you can take to deal with nocturnal asthma:
It is common to experience a worsening of asthma symptoms at night. Treatment of any underlying causes is important. Controlling allergen exposure in the bedroom, treating sinusitis and/or post-nasal drip and gastroesophageal reflux are important for managing nighttime symptoms. Your doctor may need to adjust the type and timing of medications to give extra protection during the night. Remember, you should be able to sleep through the night without asthma symptoms.
This information has been approved by David Tinkelman, M.D. (February 2006).
