What Causes Coughing at Night?
July 25, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Coughing at night can be caused by various factors, and it’s essential to identify the underlying cause to address the issue properly. Some common reasons for nighttime coughing include:
- Postnasal Drip: This occurs when excess mucus from the nose and sinuses drips down the back of the throat, leading to irritation and coughing, especially when lying down.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid from the stomach can flow back up into the esophagus during sleep, causing irritation and coughing. This is often referred to as acid reflux cough.
- Asthma: Nocturnal asthma is a type of asthma that worsens at night, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
- Allergies: If you are allergic to certain substances like dust mites, pet dander, or pollen, nighttime exposure can trigger coughing and other allergic symptoms.
- Respiratory Infections: Common cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia can cause a persistent cough, which may worsen at night.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): People with COPD may experience nighttime coughing due to the ongoing inflammation and damage to the airways.
- Medications: Some medications, especially those that affect the respiratory system or cause dryness in the throat, can lead to nighttime coughing as a side effect.
- Environmental Irritants: Exposure to smoke, strong odors, or pollution can trigger nighttime coughing in sensitive individuals.
- Sleep Apnea: In some cases, coughing at night can be associated with sleep apnea, a condition where breathing briefly stops and starts during sleep.
- Heart Conditions: In rare cases, certain heart conditions can lead to nighttime coughing, particularly when fluid accumulates in the lungs.
To determine the cause of your nighttime coughing, it’s essential to consider any other symptoms you might be experiencing and seek medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and conduct any necessary tests to diagnose the underlying issue. Once the cause is identified, appropriate treatment can be recommended to alleviate the cough and improve your sleep quality.