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Sleep, respiratory physiology, and nocturnal asthma
1National Jewish Medical and Research Center, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver 80206, USA.
Chronobiology International
|October 8, 1999
Summary
Nocturnal asthma worsening may be directly caused by sleep itself, not just circadian rhythms. Factors like posture and upper airway narrowing during sleep contribute to asthma symptoms at night.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Sleep Medicine
- Circadian Biology
Background:
- Nocturnal worsening of asthma is a prevalent clinical issue.
- Recent research has explored the role of circadian rhythms in nighttime asthma exacerbations.
- Definitive studies linking circadian rhythms to nocturnal asthma are still limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence for sleep's direct role in nocturnal asthma.
- To explore potential mechanisms by which sleep exacerbates asthma symptoms.
- To highlight areas for future investigation into nighttime asthma.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating nocturnal asthma.
- Analysis of potential physiological mechanisms related to sleep.
- Discussion of factors contributing to asthma symptoms during sleep.
Main Results:
- Substantial evidence suggests sleep itself, beyond circadian influences, contributes to nocturnal asthma.
- Potential mechanisms include supine posture, altered autonomic balance, reduced lung volume, and upper airway narrowing.
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring are identified as potential contributors.
Conclusions:
- Sleep-related factors represent a significant, under-investigated cause of nocturnal asthma.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of sleep's impact on asthma.
- Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for managing nighttime asthma symptoms effectively.