It is quite unnerving to hear a cracking, wheezing sound in your chest when lying down every time to rest. It usually occurs when your airways have a problem, such as inflammation or tube narrowing. This change makes it harder for the air to flow in and out of your lungs, causing the wheezing sound.
Wheezing while lying down is often a sign of conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or even the common cold. Some people describe it as sounding like a squeaky toy or a whistle when they breathe.
In general, wheezing may indicate something serious; therefore, if you are experiencing it, talk to your doctor about what’s happening.
7 Causes of Wheezing While Lying Down
Here are some common reasons why people experience wheezing when lying down:
Asthma
Asthma is a common respiratory condition; about 300M people globally suffer from asthma. It causes wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. This can be especially noticeable when lying down to sleep or rest in general.
Allergies
You might be allergic to irritants like dust mites, pet dander, or other environmental irritants that can result in wheezing and shortness of breath.
Acid reflux
Acid reflux can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and irritate airways. Lying down makes wheezing in the throat or lungs worse since gravity does not affect keeping the acid in the stomach.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Smoking tobacco or having tobacco-based products are the main culprits behind this. Symptoms that indicate this condition include:
- Wet or productive cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing sound while lying down
- Obesity
Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on your lungs plus the airways, making it harder to breathe.
Sinusitis
This condition is inflammation in the sinus cavities that result in a stuffy nose and cause breathing issues and wheezing when breathing out.
Respiratory infections
Infections like bronchitis or pneumonia make your chest whistle (wheezing) during inhale or exhale. Lying down makes breathing harder because your body doesn’t have the support of gravity to help move air in and out of the lungs.
How To Stop Wheezing When Lying Down?
Elevate your head
Try propping yourself up with a few pillows under your head when you go to bed. This will help keep your airways open and prevent you from wheezing at night.
Avoid allergens
Avoid common allergy-stimulating factors like dust, pollen, and pet dander. Minimize your exposure by dusting and vacuuming regularly and keeping pets out of your bedroom.
Stay hydrated
Adequate hydration is underrated. Have ample water to keep your airways clear and moist; therefore, make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Avoid irritants
Smoke, strong perfumes, and certain foods can irritate your airways and cause wheezing. Try to avoid these irritants as much as possible.
Hit the gym
Regular exercise makes sure that your airways are clear and prevents you from wheezing. Plan to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.
Final Words
In case your wheezing continues and stays persistent even after trying these tips mentioned above, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription for an inhaler that can help manage your symptoms.
You can always contact Family Diagnostic Clinic to know what’s happening and get to the root cause of your breathing problem. Dial (281) 351-6800 to get in touch with us right away.