Cough starts as soon as you go to bed at night, know why this problem is happening?

Why Do I Start Coughing When I Lie Down: Cough can occur at any time, but some people start having coughing attacks especially at night as soon as they go to bed. Everything remains normal throughout the day, but as soon as you lie down, you feel the need to clear your throat or you start coughing continuously. This problem is called night cough. Due to this, sleep is not complete and one may feel tired, irritable and weak in the morning. Let us tell you what causes this and what can be done to stop it.

What is the reason?

According to the report of Dr. Akanksha Rastogi of Medanta, there can be many reasons behind the increase in cough at night, these include the way of sleeping, the environment of the room, some medicines or internal problems related to the body. Often acid reflux or GERD is the major reason for this. When lying down, stomach acid can come towards the throat, causing dry cough. Similarly, lung diseases like allergy, asthma, pneumonia, whooping cough or COPD can also increase cough at night.

In asthma, dust or allergens present in the air cause cough, whereas in COPD, accumulated mucus causes problems. During a cold or flu, mucus from the nose starts flowing down the back of the throat as soon as you lie down, which is called postnasal drip and this triggers the cough. Additionally, dry air in the room can cause itching and irritation in the throat. Some medicines, such as beta-blockers, NSAIDs or ACE inhibitors, can also increase cough. Even lying straight on the back does not clear the airway and the cough may intensify.

How can this be avoided?

According to Dr. Akanksha, some easy measures can be helpful in getting relief from night cough. Medicines to thin the mucus, such as expectorants, may be helpful in case of wet cough. Cough drops can be taken in limited quantity in case of dry cough. Humidifier is useful to maintain 40 to 50 percent humidity in the room. Over-the-counter cough suppressants may also provide relief, but people with high blood pressure should consult a doctor before taking decongestants.

Gargling with lukewarm salt water before sleeping, drinking enough water throughout the day and sleeping with your head slightly elevated in bed also helps. Drinking one spoon honey or lemon mixed with lukewarm water gives relief to the throat. Taking a warm bath before sleeping can reduce stiffness due to steam. If you smoke, quitting can be the biggest step you can take and often a difference can be seen within a week.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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