If you’re having trouble sleeping, try the following:

• Use a breathing method. Taking slow, deep breaths can help you relax and fall asleep.

  • Ask your healthcare provider to show you how to do pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing in bed. Both methods are good for people with lung disease.

• Don’t have drinks with caffeine in the afternoon or evening. 

• Try to go to sleep and wake up at about the same time every day. This helps your body get into a pattern.

• Don't take long naps during the day. This can make it harder to sleep at night. A very short nap should be OK.

• Make your bed and bedroom comfortable. This includes temperature, light, and noise level.

• Don't watch TV or use your computer or phone in bed. Only use your bed for sleep and sex.

• Talk with your provider about any medicines you take at bedtime. They may be keeping you awake. You may be able to take the medicine at a different time.

• Talk with your provider about trying cognitive behavioral therapy. It works by changing behavior.
• In some cases prescription or over-the-counter medicines may help you sleep better for a short time.

To help you breathe at night, your provider may prescribe CPAP or BiPAP. You may be given a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device. Or you may be given a BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) device. These devices send a gentle flow of air through a nasal mask while you sleep. This air goes through your nose and into your lungs. Your airways stay open. Below are tips for using these devices:

• It may take some time to get used to the device. Ask your provider how to make it more comfortable.

• If your mask doesn’t fit or feel right, talk with your provider about adjusting it. Or you may try a different mask. Custom-made masks are also available.

• These devices work best if your nose is clear. If you have allergies or other problems that block your nose, talk with your provider.