Why Asthma Cases are Growing
Discussion on asthma inevitably involves Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a condition akin to asthma but distinct in its progression and severity. COPD, now more prevalent globally, affects 7.6% to 10.3% of individuals aged 30-79 years and stands as the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Despite sharing some symptoms, asthma and COPD differ in their root causes and manifestations.
The coexistence of asthma and COPD is increasingly recognized, leading to the identification of a condition known as Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS). Proper diagnosis by medical professionals is crucial in distinguishing among these conditions. Lifestyle interventions, particularly sleep-based approaches, offer promising avenues for managing asthma, COPD, and ACOS collectively.
The Link Between Asthma and Sleep
A fundamental aspect of human sleep is its adherence to a circadian rhythm regulated by light. During sleep, airway muscles relax, causing a narrowing of the airways and increased breathing resistance. This phenomenon, experienced by all individuals, exacerbates symptoms for those with asthma, leading to nocturnal asthma attacks. Addressing this aspect of asthma management is crucial to breaking the cycle of sleep loss and worsening symptoms.
Optimizing Sleep for Asthma Management
Respecting the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle is paramount for asthma patients. Adhering to a sleep schedule aligned with the circadian rhythm, aiming for bedtime around 9 or 10 PM and waking between 5 to 6 AM, can improve sleep quality and reduce nocturnal asthma incidents. Oversleeping or napping excessively during the day can disrupt this rhythm, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.ast
Source link
