Why It’s Too Much Cough At Night? How To Stop Coughing Naturally While Sleeping

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants, mucus, and other substances. However, if coughing persists for an extended period, it can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and even dangerous. Coughing at night is particularly bothersome because it disrupts sleep, making it difficult to get the rest needed for the body to heal. So, if you are someone who is also dealing with the same problem at night then no doubt this is going to help you for sure because, in this article, we will talk about some of the major reasons behind too much coughing at night and also talk about the tips on how you can stop coughing at night.

Well, you all must have heard that better sleep is the key to a healthy life. But we all know that night is something that brings too many problems. However, among today’s youth, there are many things that do not let them sleep, but apart from overthinking and anxiety, there is something that we all know as cough. Now, it is not hidden that cough seems to be normal in the daytime but as the day heads toward the night, it increases simultaneously. Also, when you hit your bed it gets worse and due to this you always sleep late. But now, if you are also going through the same situation then you need not be worried, just scroll on.

Why Cough Gets Worse At Night?

However, for some people, coughing tends to get worse at night. There are a few reasons why this may occur. Firstly, when lying down, mucus can accumulate in the back of the throat and irritate the airways, triggering a cough. Secondly, during the day, we are often distracted by our activities, which can help to suppress a cough. However, when we are lying in bed, with nothing to distract us, the cough can become more noticeable and persistent. Finally, some medical conditions, such as asthma and postnasal drip, may worsen at night, leading to an increase in coughing. Therefore, to alleviate nighttime coughing, it’s important to stay hydrated, prop up the head with pillows while sleeping, and seek medical attention if the cough persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Reasons Behind Too Much Cough At Night:

• Postnasal drip: When excess mucus drips down the back of the throat, it can cause irritation and lead to coughing. This is especially true at night when lying down, as the mucus can accumulate and irritate the throat.
• Acid reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and coughing. This can be exacerbated at night when lying down.
• Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. This can lead to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, especially at night.
• Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation and irritation in the airways, leading to coughing, especially at night.
• Infections: Respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu, and pneumonia can cause coughing, especially at night when lying down.

How To Stop Coughing At Night:

• Elevate the head: Sleeping with the head elevated can help reduce postnasal drip and acid reflux, making it easier to breathe and reducing coughing. This can be achieved by propping up the head with pillows or using a wedge pillow.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin out mucus and make it easier to cough up. It can also help soothe an irritated throat.
• Use a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture to the air, reducing irritation in the airways and making it easier to breathe.
• Avoid triggers: If allergies or asthma are the cause of coughing, avoiding triggers such as pollen, dust, and pet dander can help reduce symptoms.
• Take medication: Over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants can help reduce coughing or help loosen and expel mucus. For more severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary.
• Practice good sleep hygiene: Getting enough rest is essential for the body to heal, so practicing good sleep hygiene can help reduce coughing at night. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and creating a relaxing sleep environment.

Is It Serious If I Cough Too Much At Night?

Coughing at night can be a symptom of various underlying conditions such as postnasal drip, acid reflux, asthma, allergies, and infections. Addressing the root cause is essential for effective treatment, but in the meantime, various methods can help reduce coughing and make it easier to sleep. Elevating the head, staying hydrated, using a humidifier, avoiding triggers, taking medication, and practicing good sleep hygiene are all effective strategies for reducing coughing at night. If coughing persists or worsens, it is essential to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.