Sleeping position and reported night-time asthma symptoms and medication

Abstract

A 49 years old man, known case of bronchial asthma for 43 years, with history of frequent asthmatic attacks, usually responding to double dose of intravenous Aminophylline and double dose of Hydrocortisone was received at medical emergency care unit at midnight with night-time asthma attack. The attack did not settle with Aminophylline single Intravenous injection. He was then admitted and put in supine sleep position for re-evaluation while his asthma symptoms were monitored while waiting for the medical officer's evaluation of his asthma status. After 3 hours of observation, asthma symptoms were relieved, and patient was discharged home and advised to sleep in supine position throughout every night to prevent asthma symptoms. The patient was followed up through nighttime sleep diary for one month. After one month period of monitoring, the patient had significance reduction in asthma symptoms and reduced night time medication, reduced episodes of night awakening due to asthma symptoms, and improved capability for normal works. This case report describes a novel approach of management and prophylaxis of asthmatic episodes through sleeping position that reduces and control asthma symptoms resulting in reduced drug consumption.

Antiasthma Activities of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaves Extract on the Eosinophil Count and Mast Cells in BALB/c Mice

“…There is muscle contraction in the bronchial walls, swelling of the bronchial mucosa, and increased mucus production in the secretory cells of the bronchial mucosa, resulting in increased resistance to airflow through the narrowed bronchi. This condition occurs in shortness of breath 3,4 .…”