Cough Is Worse At Night

Cough Is Worse At Night Experiencing a worse cough at night is a common complaint and can be caused by various factors. Here are a few possible explanations for why coughing might be worse at night:

Cough Is Worse At Night

1. Postnasal drip: During the day, your upright position helps prevent mucus from accumulating in your throat. However, when you lie down at night, postnasal drip (excess mucus running down the back of your throat) can increase, irritating your airways and triggering coughing.

2. Acid reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux can worsen at night due to lying down. Stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and coughing.

3. Asthma: Nocturnal coughing is a typical symptom of asthma. Certain triggers, such as allergens or cold air, can cause airway constriction and inflammation, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

4. Allergies: If you have allergies, your symptoms might worsen at night due to exposure to allergens like dust mites or pet dander present in your bedroom. Coughing can be a result of the body's response to these allergens.

5. Respiratory infections: Conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, or pneumonia can cause increased coughing, and symptoms may intensify when lying down, potentially due to mucus pooling in the airways.

6. Dry air: Dry air in your bedroom can irritate your airways, causing a dry, tickling cough. This can be particularly noticeable at night when you are breathing in the same air for an extended period.

If you are concerned about your nighttime cough or if it persists or worsens over time, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and recommend appropriate treatment or further investigation, if necessary.

Share this post