You cough more when lying down because gravity no longer helps drain mucus and stomach acid, causing them to pool in the throat, triggering irritation and the cough reflex, common with issues like postnasal drip, GERD, asthma, or COPD. Lying flat makes it easier for stomach acid to rise and mucus from sinuses to drip down the throat, leading to increased irritation and coughing.
Common Reasons for Nighttime Coughing
- Postnasal Drip: Mucus from sinuses and nose drips down the throat when you're flat, irritating airways.
- GERD (Acid Reflux): Stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and throat, causing irritation.
- Asthma: Airways become more inflamed and sensitive at night, triggering coughing fits.
- COPD/Chronic Bronchitis:Inflammation and mucus in airways worsen when lying down.
- Heart Failure: Fluid can build up in the lungs when lying flat, causing coughing.
- Environmental Factors: Dry air, dust from bedding, or allergens can exacerbate nighttime coughing.
What to Do
- Elevate Your Head: Use pillows to keep your head higher than your chest.
- Humidify: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
- Stay Upright After Eating: Avoid eating large meals close to bedtime.
- Keep Bedding Clean: Reduce dust and allergen exposure.
When to See a Doctor
If your cough is persistent, severe, or accompanied by fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, see a doctor to rule out underlying conditions like heart failure, pneumonia, or worsening lung diseases.
Source: Google.
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