Coughing at night can be one of the most frustrating parts of being sick. Just when you are ready to rest, your cough seems to get worse the moment you lie down. This happens because lying flat allows mucus to pool in your throat and nasal passages, making it harder to breathe and easier for irritation to trigger coughing. Whether your cough is caused by a cold, flu, or allergies, the key is to find ways to keep your airways clear and your throat soothed. Here are three practical tips to help you manage symptoms and get a better night’s sleep.
If you’re suffering from a cough that is keeping you up at night, you can count on AFC Urgent Care Bedford. Our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week, including on weekends, from 8am to 8pm. We offer convenient walk-in care with no appointment necessary for minor conditions like coughs and other illness symptoms. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot in advance below.
Why Is My Cough Worse at Night?
When you’re coughing, your sleep position can make a big difference in your symptoms. Lying flat on your back can cause mucus to drip down your throat, leading to airway irritation, more coughing and general discomfort. Similarly, laying down puts additional pressure on your lungs, which can cause further irritation and difficulty breathing if you’re sick.
Tips for Controlling a Nighttime Cough
Prop Your Head Up
Instead of tossing and turning while your cough keeps you up, try propping yourself up with extra pillows and sleeping in a slightly upright position. Elevating your head helps reduce postnasal drip and congestion, allowing your airways to stay open. If you find that your cough worsens when lying on your back, try turning onto your side. This position can prevent mucus buildup in the throat and lungs, making it easier to breathe. The goal is to find a position that helps you breathe comfortably and keeps coughing to a minimum.
Take a Spoonful of Honey
Many coughs worsen at night due to airway irritation. Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an irritated throat. A spoonful of honey before bedtime coats the throat, reducing tickling and the urge to cough. You can also mix honey into warm tea or hot water with lemon for extra relief. For adults and older children, honey is a gentle, natural remedy that helps calm nighttime coughing and supports better sleep.
Use a Nasal Decongestant
A stuffy nose often contributes to nighttime coughing by forcing you to breathe through your mouth, which can dry and irritate your throat. Using an over-the-counter nasal decongestant or saline spray before bed can help clear your nasal passages and reduce congestion. This simple step allows smoother breathing and fewer nighttime cough interruptions.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Bedford for Cough Treatment
If your cough lasts longer than two weeks, worsens at night, or is accompanied by fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, it may be more than a common cold. Persistent coughing could signal bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, or other respiratory infections that need medical attention. Getting checked early ensures you receive the right care so you can recover quickly and rest more comfortably.
At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt care for a persistent or severe cough. Don’t let your cough keep you up at night. Our medical providers are available every day from 8am to 8pm to provide rapid cough treatment. We accept most medical insurance plans, and have affordable care for self-paying patients. Walk in today for same-day care, or give us a call to learn more at (781) 430-8161.
