If you have pulmonary fibrosis, your body will be working very hard to maintain your breathing as you perform your daily tasks and activities. This can be exhausting. Getting a full and healthy night’s sleep is the only way the body can fully refresh so that you can start the next day feeling energised.

However, many people with pulmonary fibrosis complain of poor-quality sleep. Poor sleep or sleep deprivation can lead to a variety of problems, such as tiredness, difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and irritability.¹

What can cause poor-quality sleep?^2,3

There are several causes of poor-quality sleep, including:

• Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis itself (e.g. shortness of breath, coughing)

• Concomitant conditions, such as acid reflux

• Side effects of medications

• Depression

• Sleep breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea in pulmonary fibrosis

Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It is caused by the throat muscles occasionally relaxing and blocking the airway during sleep. This can lead to excessive sleepiness during the day, loud snoring and mood changes.⁴

People with obstructive sleep apnea can benefit from using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. This is a small pump that delivers a continuous supply of compressed air through a mask that either covers your nose or your nose and mouth.⁵

In some people with pulmonary fibrosis and obstructive sleep apnea, using a CPAP device can really improve their activity levels.² A CPAP device can feel unusual or uncomfortable to start with and you may be tempted to stop using it. However, people who persevere usually soon get used to it and their symptoms improve significantly.^5,6

Speak to your treatment team if you believe you have obstructive sleep apnea, as they may be able to recommend a CPAP device.

 

Helpful tips to promote a healthy night’s sleep

There are many things that you can do to have a healthy night’s sleep. The tips below should help you to improve your sleep and energy levels throughout the day:

• Limit your caffeine intake, such as coffee and energy drinks, especially in the afternoons and evenings

• Try to exercise when you can. Exercising can improve the quality of your sleep

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking at the same time each day helps you develop a sleep rhythm for your body to follow

• Eat large meals earlier in the day to give your body time to digest food before you go to sleep

• Allow yourself time to unwind and relax before bed. Limit time spent on electronic devices such as mobile phones or laptops before going to sleep

• Consider doing pursed lip breathing before bed. Pursed lip breathing may decrease shortness of breath and help you relax

Key takeaways