A night cough could have several causes, from an illness, such as bronchitis, to environmental irritants and allergens. Airway obstructions, such as croup, can cause a night cough from overnight temperature changes that can cause the vocal cords to swell. Acid reflux can also cause a night cough as lying down can cause the acid to rise up your esophagus. There are several methods to stop a night cough, and which method you use depends on the cause.
Step 1
Take an over-the-counter cold medicine for an allergy or illness-related cough. An allergy or illness may cause post-nasal drip and swelling in the sinuses and bronchial passages. Over-the-counter cold medicines contain decongestants and antihistamines that reduce the swelling and post-nasal drip.
Step 2
Change your bedding and detergent. Some bedding, such as goose down, can trigger allergies in some people. The dyes and perfumes in detergents can also trigger allergies.
Step 3
Prop the head of your bed up on bricks to stop the cough associated with acid reflux. Elevating your head keeps the acid from traveling up your esophagus.
Step 4
Avoid eating close to bed time. A full stomach can trigger acid reflux.
Step 5
Run a hot shower and have your child sit in the steam, for croup. Croup causes the vocal cords to swell. The steam will help relieve the swelling and relieve the cough.
Step 6
Consult your physician if you have bronchitis. Bronchitis is a bacterial infection; your doctor may need to prescribe an antibiotic and a prescription cough medicine to treat the infection.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter cold and cough medicine
- Over-the-counter allergy medicine
- Dye- and fragrance-free detergent
- Bricks
