When you have cough that gets worse at night

If you're wondering why your cough seems to get worse just when you're trying to rest at night, you're not alone. Here we'll talk about why this happens and what you can try to do about it.

What type of cough gets worse at night?

That annoying nighttime cough can show up in different ways. Maybe it's a dry, tickly sensation that won't quit, or perhaps you're dealing with the "wet" kind that brings up mucous. Either way, there are several common culprits behind these nighttime nuisances:

• Post-nasal drip is often the troublemaker here. When you lie down, all that mucous from your sinuses has a perfect path to trickle down your throat. Hello, coughing fit!
• Asthma can also be a culprit - it often picks nighttime to flare up. Your airways actually change a bit while you sleep, which explains why some people mainly cough at night.
• Acid reflux (GORD) is another night owl. That horizontal position makes it easier for stomach acid to creep up where it shouldn't be, irritating your throat.
• Colds and other infections tend to feel worse at night. Your body's inflammatory response kicks into high gear during these hours, which can dial up your symptoms.
• Your bedroom itself might be the problem - dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens could be triggering your cough.

How do I stop uncontrollable coughing at night? Quick fixes that actually work

Prop yourself up properly

• Use 2-3 pillows to create a 30-45 degree inclined angle
• Try a memory foam wedge pillow for consistent support
• If you must sleep flat, laying on your left side is best for reducing reflux

Get moisture in the air

• Keep bedroom humidity around 50%
• Use a humidifier in dry months
• Try a 10-minute steam session before bed (hot shower works great)

Choose the right medicine

For dry, tickly coughs:

• Cough suppressants with dextromethorphan
• Throat lozenges with benzocaine or menthol
• Antihistamines if allergies are the culprit

For wet, productive coughs:

• Expectorants with guaifenesin to thin mucous
• Combination products for nighttime relief

Natural remedies for cough that can help

• Honey before bed (alone or in warm tea)
• Thyme or ginger tea with lemon
• Saline nasal rinse to clear congestion

How to manage a nighttime cough?

Creating the right sleep environment can make a big difference in reducing nighttime coughing. Here are some tips to help you turn your bedroom into a more comfortable, cough-free zone:

Temperature and air quality:

The ideal room temperature for sleep is slightly cool—around 18-20°C. Cooler air helps keep your airways from drying out, which can reduce irritation. Warm or dry air can aggravate coughs, especially if you’re already prone to dryness or allergies.

• Keep it cool: If you can, set the thermostat to a slightly cooler temperature before bed. Adding a fan can improve air circulation, which might also reduce the concentration of dust or other irritants.
• Use a HEPA air purifier: Air purifiers with HEPA filters can trap airborne allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, which are common cough triggers. Consider running the purifier for at least 30 minutes before bed, or all night if allergies are a major concern.
• Humidify the air: Dry air can irritate your throat and airways, making you more susceptible to coughing. Using a humidifier can help maintain a comfortable level of moisture in the room (ideally around 50% humidity), especially during dry seasons. Just make sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mould buildup, which can actually worsen respiratory symptoms.

Timing matters:

What you eat and drink, and when you consume it, can also affect nighttime coughs.

• Avoid late meals: Eating close to bedtime can lead to acid reflux, even if you don’t typically have issues with it. This can trigger coughing as stomach acid flows back into your throat when you lie down. Try to have your last meal at least 3 hours before going to sleep.
• Skip certain foods: Spicy foods, chocolate, and caffeine are all known reflux triggers that can make a nighttime cough worse. It’s best to avoid these foods in the evening, as they can keep your throat irritated.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day: Dehydration can dry out your throat, making it more prone to irritation and tickling at night. Sip water consistently during the day to keep your airways hydrated but avoid drinking too much right before bed to prevent waking up frequently.

Cleanliness and allergen control:

Allergens are a major trigger for nighttime coughs, and our bedrooms can easily collect dust, dander, and other irritants.

• Wash bedding weekly: Dust mites are a common allergen found in bedding, and they can lead to coughing fits at night. Washing your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water every week can help keep these allergens at bay.
• Vacuum and dust regularly: Carpets, rugs, and curtains can also harbour dust and other allergens. Vacuum these areas regularly and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter if possible. Dusting surfaces with a damp cloth can help capture particles that a dry cloth might spread around.
• Limit pet access to the bedroom: If you have pets, consider keeping them out of the bedroom to reduce pet dander. Even if you don’t notice symptoms around your pet during the day, their hair and skin particles can aggravate a cough while you’re sleeping.

When to seek a doctor’s appointment about your cough?

Don't hesitate to see a doctor if:

• Your cough comes with a high fever
• It's been persistent for more than three weeks
• You're having trouble breathing, or experiencing chest pain
• You have asthma or COPD and your symptoms are getting worse

Your doctor might recommend:

• Inhaled corticosteroids for asthma-related coughs
• Proton pump inhibitors for GORD
• Prescription nasal sprays for severe post-nasal drip
• Antibiotics (only if there's a bacterial infection)

Can an online doctor help via telehealth?

These days, many cough issues can be handled through online doctor visits. They can:

• Help identify what's causing your cough
• Recommend specific over-the-counter treatments
• Send prescriptions to your pharmacy if needed

Just remember for serious breathing problems or chest pain, you'll need to be assessed by a doctor in an in-person visit.

The bottom line

Most nighttime coughs are temporary annoyances that respond well to simple home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. Start with the basics - elevation, humidity, and timing your meals - then add medications if needed. Keep track of what works for you, as different approaches might work better on different nights. And don't suffer needlessly; if your cough is persistent or concerning, getting medical advice is always smart. The key is finding the right combination of treatments for your specific situation. Whether it's propping yourself up with an extra pillow, sipping honey-lemon tea before bed, or getting a prescription from your doctor, there's usually a way to get back to sleeping soundly.