Am I imagining this??

[Willow7733]

So, tonight I went to bed early (long week and not feeling the best), and I have a fan going. I don’t always sleep with a fan, but wanted the cool air on me tonight. I don’t know if I am imagining this but, when I turned over and faced the cool air, I suddenly noticed I could breathe a little better. Take in air a little easier. Is that crazy?? I have been struggling with asthma a little more this week, but I thought it was just because I was very tired and working in a dusty area at work (started feeling bad after being in the storage room in health records where it was very dusty). I took some Ventolin, but the cool air in my face seems to work well with it to open up my airways.

Anyway, going back to sleep. Just thought I would ask if anyone had this happen to them or am I losing my mind. lol

[mylungshateme]

Hi, not crazy not to me anyway! Majority of last year when I was so SOB the only way I could sleep was with a fan near my face sometimes 1 either side of bed 😂🤣 X

[twinkly29]

It's really common for people with COPD to be given little fans to create moving air as that sensation can improve breathlessness. Not saying you have COPD or that they're only used for that of course, but it's a well-known technique. I like the aircon to be on in the car if it's stuffy, for example, which I suppose is similar?

[Wheesy]

Hi Hope everyone is keeping well and safe. Along with a number of lung problems I also have sleep apnoea which the NHS have provided me with a CPAP Machine {Constant Positive Airway pressure} which also incorporates a humidity chamber and the feed tube is heated. I wear a mask all night and I have found out that the variable air controlled by the machine has improved my asthma. Also my physiotherapist advised me to use a fan at night and also to get a hand held fan which I purchased from Superdrug for about £2.00, I always wear during the day a personnel air purifier from amazon which I also find useful. On top of this I have a small portable Air Purifier once again from amazon which I have at the side of me when at home. All these things I have not spent more than £50.00 {Not including the CPAP Machine} and I find all of them very useful.Sorry for the long reply.

Hope that it is useful

[17Rose]

My respiratory consultant told me that a fan blowing over your face tricks your brain into thinking there is more air around and you can breath better

[Willow7733 in reply to 17Rose]

That sounds like a really good explanation. It was a sudden relief like when a decongestant kicks in and you can suddenly breathe through your nose. It felt just like that but in my chest.

[utkmybrthawy]

Could be! But generally, you will sleep better on your left side . That could have been a factor . 💚

[Willow7733]

This happened on my right. The fan is on my right side and I usually sleep in my left. I turned over and faced the fan and it was awesome. I tried it again last night and I slept longer. Maybe an hour or so more than usual (usually only get 2-3 hours a night since the weather has been warm/freezing/warm.)

[Gilly100]

Yes, my respiratory nurse said to do this, helps to breathe easier.

[Willow7733 in reply to Gilly100]

It is great being validated. I thought I was imagining it!