World Asthma Day 2025: Asthma symptoms may increase at night, read here why and how to manage them

News Topical, Digital Desk : Asthma is a respiratory disease in which the air pipe gets swollen and there is difficulty in breathing. There is no cure for asthma. That is, it cannot be cured completely.

Many patients experience increased symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath at night (Asthma Gets Worse At Night). This is called nocturnal asthma. But why does this happen and how can it be controlled (Tips to Control Asthma)?

Reasons why asthma symptoms increase at night

circadian rhythm of the body

Our body has a hormone called cortisol, which helps reduce inflammation. The level of this hormone decreases at night , which can increase inflammation in the airways and worsen asthma symptoms.

cold and dry air

As the temperature drops at night, the air becomes cold and dry, which can irritate the airways. Patients with allergic asthma especially face more problems due to this.

Dust and Bedding Allergens

Dust mites lurk in our mattresses, pillows and bed sheets, which can trigger asthma when inhaled at night.

Lying position

When we lie down, mucus can accumulate in the lungs and cause breathing problems. In addition, abdominal pressure falls on the diaphragm, which can cause breathing problems.

Acid reflux (GERD)

Some people have stomach acid come up into their throat at night, which can irritate the airways and increase asthma symptoms.

How to control asthma at night?

Keep the bed and room clean

• Clean sheets, pillowcases and mattresses every week.
• Use a dust mite proof cover.
• Vacuum the room regularly.

Take the medicines prescribed by the doctor on time

• If your doctor gives you a preventer inhaler, use it regularly.
• Symptoms can be reduced by taking the inhaler before sleeping at night.

Avoid cold air

• Keep the windows closed at night and sleep wearing warm clothes.
• If the air is too dry, use a humidifier.

Take steam and drink hot water

• Taking steam before sleeping opens the airways and loosens the mucus.
• Drinking warm water or herbal tea also provides relief.

sleep with your head elevated

• Keep your head slightly elevated using one or two pillows, this will make breathing easier.

Avoid eating fried foods and allergens at night

• Eating spicy or fried foods late at night can cause acid reflux , which can aggravate asthma.

Read More: If you want to lose weight, then do these 7 small household tasks; you will not need to go to the gym