How to Stop Coughing at Night

Cough can be a symptom of some minor conditions like strep throat, common cold; or that of some severe respiratory disorder like pneumonia, bronchitis, etc. Acid reflux disease is also one of the most common causes of constant coughing.

Usually, cough, that lasts only for a day or two, is not serious and does not require extensive treatment. However, mucus producing cough that occurs at night can be more bothersome and even lead to sleepless nights. It needs to be treated as early as possible.

If the cough is caused due to an allergy, it is essential to identify the possible allergen and stay away from it. Dust, pollen, certain perfumes, foods, etc., are common causes of allergies. If you experience constant coughing at night, it is recommended take proper medication for quick relief.

Antihistamines are effective in treating all kinds of cough caused due to viral or bacterial infections or allergies. The medication is available under various brand names and can be easily obtained over-the-counter.

Secondly, decongestants and cough suppressants are helpful in clearing pulmonary congestion. They help in clearing mucus and ease breathing. Thirdly, menthol containing cream can also be used to clear congestion.

You can rub it on your chest or on the nose to ease breathing and prevent cough. Apart from these, there are several natural methods that can be equally effective to treat persistent cough.

► Honey is considered as the best natural product that relieves a person of cough. You can have pure honey 1 teaspoon every day once or twice a day to treat cough. You can even add honey to a cup of herbal tea and have it daily.

► Another tip is to mix a pinch of white pepper on a teaspoon of honey and eat this mixture 3-4 times a day.

► Gargling with salt water is another effective method to clear throat and treat cough. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and gargle 2-3 times a day and before going to bed to stop coughing at night.

► Cold dry air can irritate the throat. If you suffer from cough due to dry air, you can try using a humidifier.

► Use clean bedding and mattresses to avoid exposure to allergens.

In case the cough persists for more than 3-4 days, or is accompanied with other symptoms, it is recommended to consult the doctor immediately. Secondly, it is also advised to take medication only after consulting the doctor.

Disclaimer: This is purely for informative purposes, and should not be treated as a replacement for professional medical advice.