Feeling breathless at night?
ARE you waking up gasping for breath after finding it hard to get comfortable?
Those who suffer from COPD are often used to sleepless nights. Most resort to propping their head up on as many pillows as possible, or even sleeping in a chair to help them breathe.
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It can affect every aspect of daily life — and lying down often makes the problem worse.
However, those with this condition often find that an adjustable bed can help them breathe easier and get the sleep they need to enjoy life again.
COPD covers a group of lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
The main symptoms are breathlessness, a chesty cough, frequent chest infections and wheezing.
You can have COPD and not even know it. It develops slowly and the symptoms get worse over time. And it is common to have flare-ups in winter, as the weather gets colder.
Medication, such as inhalers, can make it easier to breathe. But you could still need a bit of help, especially at night. So an adjustable bed might make all the difference.
Being able to elevate your head and neck as high as you need, at the touch of a button, will help you breathe more easily and sleep better.
Occupational therapist Samantha Shann says: ‘Sleeping at an angled position reduces pressure on the chest, allowing it to rise and fall more freely.
‘Waking up less short of breath means you are more likely to be able to wash and dress independently, or with less assistance, then make breakfast and prepare for the day ahead.’