Breathing difficulty while lying down is an abnormal condition in which a person must keep the head raised by sitting or standing to be able to breathe deeply or comfortably.
A type of breathing difficulty while lying down is paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. This condition causes a person to wake up suddenly during the night feeling short of breath.
This is a common complaint in people with some types of heart or lung problems. Sometimes the problem is subtle. People may only notice it when they realize that sleep is more comfortable with lots of pillows under their head, or their head in a propped-up position.
Your health care provider may recommend self-care measures. For example, weight loss is suggested for people who are obese and have difficulty breathing while lying down.
If you have any unexplained difficulty in breathing while lying down, call for an appointment with your health care provider.
The health care provider will perform a physical examination and take your medical history.
Medical history questions may include:
The physical examination will include special attention to the heart and lungs (cardiovascular and respiratory systems).
Tests that may be performed include the following:
Your health care provider may prescribe treatment for your breathing difficulty. Treatment depends on the cause.
You may need to receive supplemental oxygen.
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Review Date:
1/22/2013 Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang. |