Nocturnal breathing problem treatment in Dubai for better sleep and airway health

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects millions of people worldwide, causing shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and cough. A significant number of people with asthma experience symptoms at night, a condition known as nocturnal asthma.

Nighttime asthma can disrupt sleep, affect daily life, and make asthma management more challenging. Up to 60% of people with asthma may experience nocturnal symptoms. In Dubai, patients with nocturnal asthma can consult Dr. Ahmed El-Rafei for specialized care.

The exact cause of nocturnal asthma is not completely understood, but several factors contribute to worsening symptoms at night:

• Circadian rhythm: The body’s internal clock affects lung function, which naturally drops during the early hours. Patients may experience up to a 50% variation in lung function.
• Hormonal changes: Adrenaline and cortisol are lower at night, reducing airway relaxation.
• Airway inflammation: Circadian rhythms can increase inflammation triggers during sleep.
• External triggers: Post-nasal drip, allergens, cold air, and sleeping position.

Nighttime asthma symptoms are similar to daytime asthma but often more severe. Watch for:

• Persistent coughing at night
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

Impact on daily life: Children may struggle with memory and learning due to lack of sleep, while adults often face decreased productivity and mood changes.

Treatment focuses on daily management and avoiding triggers. Effective strategies include:

1. Quick-relief inhalers

Provide fast relief during an asthma attack by relaxing the airway muscles. They are effective even for nighttime asthma symptoms.

2. Controller medications

Help reduce and prevent long-term lung inflammation. Common types include inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABA).

3. Biologic therapies

Injectable treatments used for moderate to severe asthma that target specific immune pathways.

4. Allergy immunotherapy

A series of injections (allergy shots) that gradually build tolerance to specific allergens.

1. Can nocturnal asthma develop even if daytime asthma is mild?

Yes, some people may experience severe symptoms only at night, even if their daytime asthma appears well-controlled.

2. Are certain foods linked to nighttime asthma attacks?

Spicy foods, caffeine, and foods that trigger acid reflux can worsen asthma at night, especially in people with GERD.

3. Is it safe to use asthma medications at night?

Yes, inhalers and controller medications prescribed by a doctor are safe to use at night. Always follow your doctor’s guidance.