Why do I have problems with breath when I lay down?

How do I breath when I lay down and have breathing problems?

• Answer:

  Prop yourself up on pillows or raise the head of you bed on blocks. Some people sleep in recliners. You don't say what meds you are using to improve your breathing or if it is a temporary or chronic condition. If you have allergies to dust, clean your room thoroughly every week so there are not allergens in the bedroom. No animals in the bedroom either. Use a humidifier if your home is dry. Buy a hygrometer to check the humidity. Take your inhaler or nebulizer just before bed. Drink more liquids if you have a cold. If it is just a cold, take some OTC medication to relieve stuffiness before bed. If you keep waking up gasping for breath during the night, you may have sleep apnea and need to see a pulmonologist and have a sleep study done. There are bi-paps and c-paps that help you breathe at night. Lose weight if you are overweight as this makes it hard for your chest muscles and lungs to do their job. Try the nasal strips that are supposed to open your nasal passages so you can breath better. My husband has breathing problems but he sleeps in bed with the head raised for a few hours then goes to the recliner. This is the best solution for him. You'll have to find what works best for you.