A persistent cough can be annoying during the day, but for many people, it becomes significantly worse at night. If you’ve found yourself tossing and turning due to relentless coughing, you’re not alone. Nighttime coughs are common and can stem from a variety of causes. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can help you manage your symptoms and get a better night’s sleep.
For same-day cough treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our medical team is available to diagnose and treat your symptoms 7 days a week. Just stop by today, no appointment necessary!
Why Coughs Can Worsen at Night
Several factors contribute to nighttime coughing. One of the most common is your body’s position. When you lie down, gravity affects the way mucus drains from your nasal passages and sinuses. This can lead to postnasal drip, where mucus trickles down the back of your throat, triggering the cough reflex. Additionally, lying flat can make acid reflux worse. If stomach acid travels back up the esophagus, it can irritate your throat and lungs, leading to coughing. This condition, known as GERD, is a frequent culprit behind nighttime coughs.
Another factor is the air quality in your sleeping environment. Dry or dusty air can irritate your respiratory system, especially if you’re dealing with allergies or asthma. Bedroom allergens, like dust mites or pet dander, can also exacerbate coughing at night.
Tips For Managing Nighttime Coughs
If a nighttime cough is interfering with your sleep, consider these tips to find relief:
- Elevate Your Head: Sleep with an extra pillow to keep your head elevated. This helps reduce postnasal drip and minimizes acid reflux.
- Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can soothe an irritated throat and reduce coughing caused by dry air.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from your throat.
- Avoid Triggers: Identify and eliminate allergens in your bedroom. Wash bedding regularly and keep pets out of the sleeping area.
- Over-the-Counter Remedies: Cough suppressants or antihistamines may help manage symptoms. Always consult a healthcare provider for professional guidance.
When To Seek Medical Attention
While occasional nighttime coughing is usually not a cough for concern, it’s important to see a healthcare provider if your cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like a high-fever. Persistent or severe coughing could indicate an underlying condition that needs treatment. At an urgent care center, medical providers can diagnose and treat the root of your nighttime cough. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform diagnostic tests, and develop a treatment plan to address the root cause of your cough.
Get Walk-In Cough Relief at AFC Urgent Care Clark in Clark, NJ
A cough that worsens at night can disrupt your sleep and take a toll on your overall well-being. While some causes can be managed with simple home remedies, others may require medical attention to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Clark, our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is here to provide prompt, professional care. We’ll work to diagnose the cause of your cough and help you find effective relief so you can go back to enjoying restful nights. Visit us today with no appointment necessary! Our center is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis. We accept most major health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about cough treatment, or other services we provide, please call us directly at (732) 301-5114.
