Cough that's worse at night
Overview
A nighttime cough is a persistent cough that becomes more severe or frequent during evening and nighttime hours, often disrupting sleep. This type of cough typically worsens when lying down and may be accompanied by throat irritation or chest discomfort.
Common Causes
Night coughs are often caused by lying flat, which allows mucus to pool in the throat and irritate airways. Dry indoor air from heating systems can also worsen coughing by drying out throat tissues. Acid reflux tends to be more problematic when lying down, as stomach acid can back up and trigger coughing fits. Additionally, allergens like dust mites in bedding or pet dander can accumulate in the bedroom and provoke nighttime respiratory irritation.
Severity Levels
Mild: Occasional coughing episodes at bedtime that may cause brief sleep interruption but don't significantly impact overall rest quality or daily activities.
Moderate: Regular nightly coughing that disrupts sleep patterns, causes fatigue the next day, and may require sitting up or changing positions to find relief.
Severe: Persistent, intense coughing throughout the night that prevents restful sleep, causes significant exhaustion, and may be accompanied by breathing difficulties or chest pain requiring immediate medical attention.
Medical Attention
See a doctor if your nighttime cough persists for more than 2-3 weeks, is accompanied by fever, produces blood, or significantly disrupts your sleep. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or if the cough is associated with wheezing or severe shortness of breath. Contact your healthcare provider if you have underlying conditions like asthma or heart disease and notice your nighttime cough is worsening.
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