Nocturnal Cough

Coughing at night can affect sleep and if you are suffering from this condition, it is important to find ways to soothe the throat and sensitive airways before going to bed.

Drink herbal tea with honey

Instead of choosing a caffeine containing drink, it is better to choose herbal tea with honey. In a study on children 2 of years old, who were suffering from upper respiratory tract infection, the researchers gave them 2 teaspoons of honey before sleep. Then, they found that honey could be as effective as cough medicine in reducing nighttime cough and increasing sleeping quality. The best way to smooth sore throat and cough is to mix honey in weak tea or warm water and drink it before sleep. However, remember not to give honey to children under one year old, because it can cause dangerous botulism poisoning.

Sleeping on the slope

Be sure to use your pillow in steeping position. If you are not inclined to sleep, postnasal mucus buildup may irritate the throat while the same may experience gastro esophageal reflux and too much cough can be followed.

Keep the air humid

Dry air causes itchy throat and dry cough. On the other hand, warm and humid weather softens and opens the airways. You can put a towel over your head and breathe over steam. Breathe slowly under the towel for a few minutes and repeat this several times a day.

Keep bed linen clean

 If you’re prone to allergies, know that dust on the bed triggers allergic symptoms. After a week wash your bed linen with warm water.

Do not smoke

Do not smoke cigarettes and do not even get exposed to cigarette smoke.

Drink plenty of fluids

This will soften the mucus in your chest. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. You can also add a little lemon juice.

Medications

Some medications can help soften the mucus, or reduce stomach acid production if you have night time reflux. Consult with your doctor about taking these drugs. If your cough lasts more than 7 days, see your doctor.