Discover the Link Between Sleep and Asthma

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In this episode, Dr. Joel Ten is joined by Clinical Associate Professor Gregory Katsoulotos to explore the fascinating connection between sleep and asthma. Dr. Ten, a GP with over 15 years of experience and a passion for respiratory health, and A/Prof Katsoulotos, a leading respiratory and sleep physician, discuss how asthma symptoms can disrupt sleep and what can be done to improve both.

The conversation dives into why asthma often worsens at night, the role of proper asthma management in achieving restful sleep, and how to identify and address other potential causes of nighttime symptoms, like reflux or sleep apnea. A/Prof Katsoulotos shares practical tips for improving sleep hygiene, including maintaining consistent bedtimes, avoiding stimulants, and creating a comfortable sleeping environment.

The episode also emphasizes the importance of having an up-to-date asthma action plan and using preventer medications consistently, even when symptoms seem under control. Dr. Ten and A/Prof Katsoulotos remind listeners that no one should accept disrupted sleep as “normal”—there are effective treatments and strategies available to help manage asthma and improve quality of life.

If you or a loved one struggles with asthma symptoms at night, tune in to gain expert insights and actionable advice to sleep soundly and breathe easier.

Listen and subscribe now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Visit ⁠PollenForecast.com.au⁠ ⁠to check local pollen levels and find more resources at the National Asthma Council Sensitive Choice website ⁠sensitivechoice.com⁠.

Meet the Speakers

Dr Joel Ten

Dr Joel Ten is a general practitioner with over 15 years of clinical experience in both hospital and clinic work. Joel is actively involved in educating both people in the community and healthcare professionals. He has worked in a number of areas including emergency medicine, psychiatry, obstetrics, paediatrics, internal medicine, rehabilitation and general practice. He is a member of the GP Advisory Group and a regular spokesperson for the National Asthma Council.

Clinical Associate Professor Gregory Katsoulotos

A/Prof Gregory Katsoulotos is a respiratory and sleep physician with a special interest in asthma of all severities. In 2019 A/Prof Katsoulotos was appointed to the Australasian Severe Asthma Registry Management Committee of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. He is also a member of the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, participating in community asthma research within the Quality Use of Respiratory Medicines Group. He is also a visiting medical officer at St Vincent's Private and St George Private Hospitals in NSW.

A/Prof Katsoulotos has wide experience in the severe asthma space with the use of biological agents and also runs regular meetings for healthcare professionals and a clinic bringing together medical and healthcare workers to better sort out difficult-to-treat asthma.