In this article youll learn how sleep quality can impact your lung health This way youll be guided on the next steps you have to do when you notice sleep and respiratory problems
Poor Sleep Decrease Lung Function
According to a study sleep and lung function have a direct relationship While respiratory diseases may affect sleep quality lack of sleep may also cause lung problems
Here are the findings of the study
Sleep has a permissive effect on mucous retention bronchial reactivity and respiratory failure
During REM sleep the rib cage is inhibited
Evaluation of sleep study in patients with respiratory problems by a pulmonologist is a must To identify any underlying respiratory insufficiency patients with non respiratory medical conditions should also undergo a sleep study most especially those who are at risk of developing cardiovascular problems
Lack of Sleep Weakens Immunity
Poor sleep quality or sleep deprivation can affect lung health Since poor sleep can weaken the immune system it also increases ones vulnerability to respiratory problems
For patients with chronic lung disease sleep deficiency could worsen the signs and symptoms Also short sleep can increase the risk of stroke kidney disease diabetes and depression
Sleep Problems Cause Breathing Changes
Due to reduced brain activity breathing patterns may change becoming less regular and shallow during sleep The sleep and wake cycle intensifies breathing changes from non rapid eye movement NREM sleep to rapid eye movement REM sleep
During REM sleep breathing becomes less frequent Difficulty breathing at night can reduce lung activity which makes inhaling and exhaling even more difficult Rapid eye movements REM sleep refers to a period of sleep characterized by as its name suggests rapid eye movement It represents the dream state with reduced muscle activity During this stage of sleep cardiac and respiratory functions become unstable Breathing obstruction can result in sudden arousal to get more oxygen Smoking lung diseases and anything that obstructs breathing contributes to sleep problems
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Ceases Breathing
Obstructive sleep apnea affects about 20 million adult Americans which greatly affects overweight or obese individuals and adult men aged 40 years old and above It ceases breathing during sleep wherein breathing stops periodically for up to ten seconds In severe cases cessation of breathing may happen hundreds of times in one night
Obstructive sleep apnea can cause hypertension increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease Theres a greater risk of heart attack coronary artery disease stroke and heart failure with more severe obstructive sleep apnea
Snoring is a common sign seen in people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea but not all people who snore have sleep apnea Its likely a sign of obstructive sleep apnea when its followed by breathing pauses and gasping or choking sounds Also sleep apnea can cause fatigue or daytime sleepiness
The most common manifestations of sleep apnea include the following
Loud or frequent snoring
Gasping or choking sounds
Silent breathing pauses
Un refreshing sleep
Morning headaches
Irritability
Insomnia
Nocturia increased nighttime urination
Memory loss
Difficulty concentrating
Decreased sexual desire
Sleep Deprivation Worsens COPD
According to the National Sleep Foundation chair Joseph M Ojile MD people who have a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD need to rest their respiratory muscles to function well the next day Thats why these patients must get a good nights sleep However the problem is that its hard to get sleep when youre in pain coughing and difficulty breathing
If you have COPD check out these ways to help improve your sleep
Adjust Sleep Position Position your head slightly higher than the rest of your body to help prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux which leads to frequent arousal at night
Exercise and Get Active Physical activity can help improve COPD By moving more during the day expect better sleep at night
Oxygen Therapy For you to avoid breathing problems at night promoting better sleep your pulmonologist may prescribe oxygen therapy
Poor Sleep Increases Vulnerability to Coronavirus Infection
Proper sleep is crucial during the coronavirus outbreak As previously mentioned lack of sleep may weaken immunity and if this happens your body is more vulnerable in contracting coronavirus and suffer from its life threatening complications like severe pneumonia
In addition to getting enough sleep its also important to eat nutritious foods to supply your organs including your lungs the right amount of vitamins and minerals it needs to function properly
Tips to Improve Sleep Quality and Promote Lung Health
Put Away Electronics
Reduce light emitted from electronics such as tablets laptops and smartphones by putting them away during sleep time because these can disturb and keep you awake
Establish a Sleep Routine
You can sync your bodys sleep and wake cycle response or circadian rhythm by waking up and going to bed or sleeping at the same time everyday
Avoid Daytime Napping
As much as possible you should avoid napping during the day to easily get sleep at night If you cant help it keep your nap time short or no longer than 20 minutes
Replace Your Mattress
Do you still remember the time you bought your mattress If not then its time to replace it because it might be the culprit why youre having sleep problems
Sagging and worn out mattress can be a possible cause of back pain and uncomfortable sleep
Music Therapy
Listening to soothing music calms the body and mind especially for patients with sleep problems For the best results try downloading and playing your favorite classical or mellow music before bedtime and upon waking up early in the morning Doing so can help reduce stress and anxiety reducing tension and pain perception too
You can also perform breathing exercises and meditation with music therapy
Conclusion
Sleep quality can affect breathing patterns and overall lung function Significant changes in breathing patterns can result from obstructive sleep apnea COPD and other respiratory problems On the other hand if you lack sleep youll feel sleepy the next day reducing your physical activity or become immobile which can affect lung health
During this trying time in the World you can order your CPAP supplies over the phone by calling any of Alaska Sleep Clinics four labs or online through this website and we will mail your supplies directly to your home Your health and safety remain our top priority
