Sleep and Obstructive Lung Diseases

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common obstructive lung diseases affecting millions of people in the United States. Because sleep disorders are also common, it is not surprising that many people with obstructive lung disease also suffer from sleep disorders. People with COPD and those with asthma, however, have worse sleep quality and more sleep-related problems when compared with people with other chronic health problems. In addition, a pathologic relationship may exist between obstructive sleep apnea and obstructive lung diseases. This article focuses on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical implications of sleep disturbances in asthma and COPD.