Asthma patients have higher rates of insomnia, according to research findings. Scientists found that insomnia was more common among people with asthma and is associated with poorer asthma control, as well as depression and anxiety.
Asthma patients often report sleeping troubles, but the prevalence of insomnia and its link to asthma have long been unknown.
Advertisement
The researchers found that 37 percent of asthma patients suffered from insomnia. Patients with higher body mass index, worse lung function, and lower income were more susceptible to sleeping troubles. Even though the patients did not report nighttime asthma symptoms, nearly 25 percent of them still had insomnia. Those with insomnia were more likely to use healthcare services for their asthma. Asthma patients with insomnia had worse control of their condition.
Lead author of the study Faith Luyster explained, “Our results show that poor sleep may not be solely due to nighttime awakenings due to asthma symptoms but may represent comorbid insomnia and that comorbid insomnia can significantly impact asthma outcomes including quality of life and healthcare utilization.”
The researchers concluded that there is a higher prevalence of insomnia among asthma patients.
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
