Coughing is a common reflex that helps clear irritants and mucus from your airways. However, many people find that their coughs worsen at night. This phenomenon, often referred to as a nocturnal cough, can disrupt sleep and be quite bothersome. But why does this increase in coughing occur when we’re trying to rest? Let’s explore the reasons behind why you might cough more at night and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Nighttime Cough
Several factors can contribute to a cough becoming more pronounced at night. Understanding these causes is the first step to finding relief.
One of the primary reasons is postnasal drip. Throughout the day, mucus produced in your sinuses and nasal passages naturally drains down the back of your throat. When you’re upright, you swallow this mucus unconsciously. However, when you lie down, gravity shifts, and this mucus can accumulate in the back of your throat, triggering the cough reflex. This is especially common with colds, allergies, and sinus infections.
Asthma is another significant contributor to nighttime coughing. Asthma symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, often worsen at night. This is partly due to natural hormonal changes and the cooling of airways during sleep, which can make them more sensitive and prone to constriction.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux, can also lead to a nighttime cough. When you lie down, stomach acid is more likely to flow back up into the esophagus and even reach the throat. This acid reflux can irritate the lining of the esophagus and trigger a cough, especially when it reaches the vocal cords or airways.
Environmental factors within your bedroom can also play a role. Dry air, particularly during winter months or in air-conditioned rooms, can irritate the airways and exacerbate coughing. Additionally, allergens in your bedding, such as dust mites or pet dander, can trigger allergic reactions and coughing during the night.
Why Coughing Worsens When Lying Down
Beyond the specific causes, the simple act of lying down changes how your body handles mucus and irritants, making a cough more likely and intense at night.
Gravity’s Role: As mentioned earlier, gravity shifts mucus accumulation when you recline. Instead of draining downwards, mucus pools in the throat, stimulating cough receptors.
Reduced Swallowing: During sleep, you naturally swallow less frequently than when you are awake. Swallowing helps clear mucus and irritants from the throat. Reduced swallowing at night means these substances are more likely to linger and trigger coughing.
Airway Irritation: Lying flat can increase pressure on the sinuses and nasal passages, potentially leading to more congestion and irritation, which in turn prompts coughing.
Soothing a Nighttime Cough: Natural Remedies and Tips
While persistent or severe nighttime coughs warrant a doctor’s visit, several natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments can help soothe a cough and improve your nighttime rest.
Honey and Lemon: A classic remedy, a warm drink of lemon and honey before bed can be very effective. Honey has soothing properties for the throat, and lemon can help thin mucus. Studies suggest honey can be as effective as some over-the-counter cough medications for cough relief.
Elevate Your Head: Using extra pillows to elevate your head and upper body while sleeping can help reduce postnasal drip and acid reflux, both contributing factors to nighttime coughs. This position helps gravity work in your favor, encouraging drainage and minimizing irritation.
Humidifier: If dry air is a factor, using a humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture to the air, helping to soothe irritated airways and reduce coughing.
Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water before bed can help clear irritants and reduce inflammation in the throat. This simple remedy can be particularly helpful for coughs associated with colds or throat infections.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially water, helps to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up and less likely to accumulate and trigger a nighttime cough.
While these natural remedies can provide relief, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if your nighttime cough is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. They can properly diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
