Is your sleep disrupted by wheezing? Know when to see your doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms along with recurrent wheezing during sleep, it’s important to consult a doctor:

1.  Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

2.  Persistent coughing, especially at night or in the early morning

3.  Chest tightness or discomfort

4.  Fatigue or tiredness during the day

5.  Loud snoring or pauses in breathing during sleep (a potential sign of sleep apnea)

What are triggers?

Recurrent wheezing during sleep can be caused by various respiratory conditions.

1. Asthma: This chronic inflammatory condition can cause airway narrowing, leading to wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This is a chronic condition that causes lung and airway inflammation and obstructs airflow from the lungs. This includes emphysema (air sacs in the lungs are damaged) and chronic bronchitis.

3. Fluid overload: This is secondary to heart failure and can also sometimes cause wheezing. This usually happens in cases of congestive heart failure, where your heart cannot pump enough blood for body functioning. This can cause fluid to back up in the lungs, making it difficult for you to breathe, resulting in wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath, all of which worsen when lying down. You might need medicine to reduce inflammation, decrease fluid build-up or manage blood pressure.

4. Sleep Apnea: This sleep disorder is characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the airways during sleep, which can lead to wheezing and other breathing difficulties.

5. Respiratory infection: Viral or bacterial infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can cause inflammation and mucus buildup in the airways, leading to wheezing.

6. Allergies: Exposure to allergens like dust mites, pet dander or pollen can trigger an allergic reaction that narrows the airways and causes wheezing.

7. Obesity: Carrying excess flab can complicate breathing when you are lying down. In this position, fat deposits around the lungs can restrict lung function, leading to wheezing. Obesity is also a trigger for sleep apnea. In such cases you need a CPAP device, which widens your airways, to reduce breathing issues at night.

When should you consult a doctor?

It’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience recurrent wheezing during sleep, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, chest tightness, or persistent coughing. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening of the underlying condition and potential complications.

Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination, order diagnostic tests (such as lung function tests or imaging studies), and review your medical history to determine the cause of your wheezing. Based on the findings, they may prescribe appropriate treatment, which could include medications (such as bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids), lifestyle modifications, or referral to a specialist if necessary.

Early intervention can help manage the condition and prevent potential complications, ensuring better respiratory health and quality of life.