It happens to everyone – that annoying sensation in your throat that starts as a tickle and develops into a hacking cough just as you’re trying to fall asleep, or in the middle of the night.

One of the reasons why this could happen is because coughing is the body’s processes of ridding your lungs and airways of irritants such as mucus, microbes, and pollutants.

Lucky for you, we have some easy remedies that can be tried at home to help you stop your night-time coughs:

1. Incline the head of your bed

It’s easier for irritants to make their way to your throat and trigger coughing when you’re lying down. Try propping up some pillows to raise your head as this will most likely help reduce your cough.

2. Add honey to a warm drink

Honey in a warm drink can do wonders in clearing your throat. Mix two teaspoons of honey in warm water or herbal tea and drink before going to bed.

3. Allergy-proof your bedroom

When your immune system overreacts to an allergen, allergy symptoms such as coughing can occur. Dust allergy is a common cause of cough, especially at night as you’re exposed to dust mites on your bedding.

Here are some strategies to mite-proof your bedroom:

• Use allergy covers for pillow cases and mattresses to reduce and prevent dust mites
• Wash bedding in warm water at least once a week
• Avoid letting pets on your bed or in your bedroom

 

What to do when coughing is severe?

Most coughs gradually go away on their own, but severe nighttime coughing may be a sign of a serious condition. Get medical help if you cough is severe and is you experience

• Trouble breathing
• Choking sensations
• Swelling in your legs or abdomen
• Wheezing
• A cough that has lasted more than 3 weeks
• A fever of 100˚F (38˚C) or above

 

There are different methods and lifestyle changes you can try to relieve or prevent nighttime coughing. Hope these remedies will help you soothe your ticklish throat.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/nighttime-relief#1