Do you have breathing difficulties when you lie down? Obstructed airways can lead to a whistling sound when you inhale and exhale. The wheezing sound can get worse when lying down because the position can affect how your chest rises and falls. Consequently, you may find it hard to breathe. Wheezing can signify many conditions, which we’ll cover in this blog.
What Causes Wheezing When Lying Down?
Allergies, asthma, COPD, and other health conditions can lead to wheezing when lying down. Your healthcare provider can diagnose the cause and recommend a suitable treatment. Here are some reasons why your chest might be wheezing when you’re lying down:
- Asthma
About 300 million people around the world suffer from asthma, which is a chronic condition. Wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing are some symptoms that appear if you have asthma. Many people have nocturnal asthma, meaning their symptoms occur at night. If you’re wheezing at night, it could mean that you’re at risk of asthma attacks and your condition is not well-controlled.
Visit your healthcare provider for asthma treatments, as they can evaluate your conditions and suggest the best treatments. This way, they can guide you on how to get rid of wheezing at night. - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Breathing difficulties or wheezing when you’re lying down could also indicate that your stomach acids are flowing back into the esophagus. Known as GERD, this condition causes heartburn, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, and more.
Asthma episodes can result in a relaxed lower part of the esophagus, allowing stomach acids to flow back. Hence, people with asthma are at risk of GERD. In addition, the corrosive stomach content can also mimic the symptoms of COPD or asthma as it irritates the airways,
Avoiding food that leads to GERD flare-ups and more can help you manage GERD symptoms. Visit a reputable doctor for treatment. - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can cause trouble breathing. Tobacco smoking is the main culprit behind this, although many cases have different causes. COPD can bring symptoms like wet cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, etc. COPD doesn’t have a cure yet, but doctors can help you manage the condition. Many treatments are available to slow the progression of this disease and relieve its symptoms. Stick to the doctor’s recommendations and tips to live better with COPD - Anxiety
Anxiety, although termed a mental condition, causes physical symptoms as well. Hyperventilation, heart palpitations, sweating, etc., can occur when you have anxiety. You may feel like there’s heaviness in your chest, narrowing your airways. As a result, you may experience wheezing at night.
Therapy and medications can help you deal with anxiety. - Obesity
Higher body mass index or BMI may be associated with fat deposits in the lungs, according to a study. Therefore, people with obesity could also experience wheezing and other breathing difficulties. Maintaining your body weight with the help of a diet, exercise, and conditions that lead to excess weight can help.
What to do If You’re Wheezing When Lying Down?
You should visit a doctor first if you’re wheezing at night. They can treat the underlying cause and help you deal with the symptoms. Here are some ways you can get rid of wheezing at night:
- Refrain from eating close to bedtime.
- Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake
- Get rid of allergens. For instance, pet dander can trigger your condition if you allow your pet to sleep with you.
- Sleep with an elevated head.
- Place your medications nearby
What to do?
If you’re wheezing when lying down, you can deal with it by visiting a credible doctor, like our Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center expert. Schedule an appointment with us at (281) 252-8600.