Can Lack of Sleep Cause Asthma?
The short answer is, yes, lack of sleep can cause asthma. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation in the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, and difficulty breathing. In addition to environmental triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, and smoke, lack of sleep can be a contributing factor to asthma symptoms.
Sleep deprivation is defined as a lack of restorative sleep that occurs over an extended period of time. It causes a disruption in the body’s circadian rhythm, or internal clock, which can lead to physical and mental health issues. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can increase the risk of asthma attacks, as well as worsen existing symptoms.
One study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine showed a correlation between sleep deprivation and asthma. The study found that the risk of asthma attacks was higher in those who got less than six hours of sleep per night. Another study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that people with asthma who got less than seven hours of sleep per night were more likely to experience more severe respiratory symptoms.
In addition to increasing the risk of asthma attacks, lack of sleep can also lead to an increase in inflammation in the airways. This can make it difficult to breathe and worsen asthma symptoms. Studies have also shown that sleep deprivation can lead to a decrease in lung function, making it more difficult to breathe.
Lack of sleep can also lead to an increase in stress. Stress can worsen asthma symptoms by causing muscles in the airways to tighten, making it difficult to breathe.
The best way to prevent asthma attacks and reduce symptoms is to ensure that you get enough sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Additionally, make sure to avoid environmental triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, and smoke. If you are having difficulty sleeping, talk to your doctor about ways to improve your sleep.