Catching a cold is unpleasant at any time of day, but many people notice that their symptoms feel much worse at night. The runny nose, cough, and congestion that were manageable during daylight hours suddenly intensify, making it harder to sleep and recover. This is not just your imagination. There are biological and environmental reasons why cold symptoms may seem more severe after sunset.
If you’re experiencing illness symptoms and in search of rapid relief, AFC Urgent Care Attleboro can help. Our walk-in clinic offers same-day illness symptom relief so that you can get back to feeling your best. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance below. We’re open 7 days a week.
Why Are Cold Symptoms Worst at Night?
One key reason colds feel worse at night is linked to your body’s natural rhythm and the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is known as the "stress hormone," but it also helps regulate inflammation and immune response. During the day, cortisol levels are higher, helping to keep inflammation under control. At night, cortisol levels naturally drop, meaning your immune system ramps up its fight against infection.
This immune activity can cause increased mucus production, swelling in the nasal passages, and more noticeable coughing, making symptoms feel worse. Additionally, lying down can make nasal congestion more uncomfortable. Gravity no longer helps drain mucus from your sinuses, so you may feel more "stuffed up" at night. Dry indoor air from heating systems can also irritate nasal passages, making you cough more frequently.
How to Manage Colds at Night
While nighttime symptoms can feel frustrating, there are several ways to make nights more comfortable:
- Elevate your head while sleeping – Use an extra pillow to help sinuses drain and ease breathing.
- Use a humidifier – Adding moisture to the air can soothe dry nasal passages and reduce coughing.
- Stay hydrated – Warm herbal teas or honey water can help thin mucus and calm a sore throat.
- Try saline nasal sprays – These can flush out irritants and keep nasal passages moist.
- Take over-the-counter medications if needed – Decongestants or pain relievers may help, but always follow dosage instructions.
A bedtime routine that includes a warm shower or steam inhalation can also open up airways, making it easier to sleep.
When to Seek Medical Care
Most common colds improve on their own within 7 - 10 days, but it’s important to monitor your symptoms. You should seek medical care if you experience:
- High fever that lasts more than three days.
- Shortness of breath or wheezing.
- Severe sore throat or ear pain.
- Sinus pain that doesn’t improve.
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days or getting worse.
Walk Into AFC Urgent Care Attleboro for Convenient Illness Care
If your cold symptoms are severe enough to interfere with breathing, are accompanied by a very high fever, or you suspect a secondary infection such as pneumonia or bronchitis, getting professional help quickly is important. At AFC Urgent Care Attleboro, our team of board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide rapid diagnosis, prescribe necessary medications, and rule out more serious conditions. Prompt treatment not only speeds up recovery but also helps prevent spreading illness to others, which is a key consideration for families and workplaces.
Our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week to provide convenient and affordable care for illness symptoms. Simply walk in when it’s convenient. We treat patients of all ages and work with most medical insurance providers. To learn more, give us a call at (774) 254-9500.
