Why does my breathing sound like a bellows when I sleep?

Generally, the cause of stertorous breathing during sleep may be excessive fatigue, increased respiratory secretions, bronchitis, rhinitis, bronchial asthma, or other conditions. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical consultation is recommended for targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Excessive fatigue: Prolonged physical or mental activity may affect the muscles and mucous membranes of the respiratory system, leading to narrowed airways and resulting in stertorous breathing sounds during sleep. Ensuring adequate sleep and avoiding prolonged continuous work are recommended.

2. Increased respiratory secretions: An increase in respiratory secretions may be related to respiratory infections, allergies, and other factors. Excess secretions may block the airway, potentially causing stertorous breathing sounds during respiration. Symptoms may include coughing, expectoration, and breathing difficulties. Drinking more water and maintaining indoor air humidity can help thin the secretions.

3. Bronchitis: Inhalation of dust or infections may induce bronchitis. The bronchial mucosa may become congested and edematous, with increased secretions, leading to narrowed airways. When air flows through these narrowed passages, stertorous sounds similar to a bellows may occur. Treatment may include medications such as Azithromycin Tablets, Cefaclor Tablets, or Cefadroxil Capsules, as directed by a physician.

4. Rhinitis: This condition may be triggered by viral infections, allergens, climate changes, and other factors. Nasal mucosa congestion and edema, along with increased secretions in patients with rhinitis, may block the airway, causing stertorous breathing sounds. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and reduced sense of smell. Treatment may involve medications such as Xiangju Capsules, Rhinitis Tablets, or Biyuan Tongqiao Granules, as advised by a doctor.

5. Bronchial asthma: This condition may be related to genetic and environmental factors. The airways of patients with bronchial asthma exhibit hyperresponsiveness to various stimuli, leading to airway narrowing and increased secretions, which may result in stertorous breathing sounds during sleep. Symptoms may include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Medications such as Compound Aminophylline Tablets, Diprophylline Tablets, or Doxofylline Tablets may be used under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

Adopting a lateral sleeping position can help reduce upper airway collapse. Additionally, engaging in appropriate physical exercises, such as walking or swimming, can help enhance physical resistance.