Nighttime is when our bodies rest and regenerate during sleep—a process that is, of course, essential to our good health. Sometimes, disruptions related to the body’s defense mechanisms can interfere with sleep. This is the case with a nighttime cough, which, if it persists, can cause various physical and psychological problems. Fortunately, the primary role of a cough is to protect the body by clearing the airways. It’s only a cause for concern if it persists and interferes with daily life and well-being. To better understand the causes of nighttime coughing and its consequences, we’ve reviewed the different types of coughs and identified solutions to help relieve them.
What is the role of a cough, and what causes it?
Everyone experiences a cough at some point in their lives, as it is a normal defensive reflex of the body that helps clear mucus and secretions from the airways.
It can be dry or productive, depending on its cause. A productive cough is often caused by a viral infection, such as a sore throat or nasopharyngitis, particularly during the winter months. It usually starts as a dry cough and quickly progresses to a productive cough with phlegm. If a dry cough does not develop into a productive cough, or is not accompanied by other symptoms of a viral illness, it may simply be an irritative cough. In this case, it is not accompanied by expectoration (the expulsion of secretions). A dry cough in this situation is often caused by allergies, asthma, or exposure to cold temperatures. A cough is considered persistent or chronic when it lasts longer than 3 weeks. In such cases, it is primarily caused by sinusitis or gastroesophageal reflux, as well as smoking, which can lead to chronic bronchitis. However, to determine the cause, it is essential to consult a doctor.
A coughing fit occurs in fits and starts and is therefore difficult to stop. It can involve both productive and dry coughs. It is truly very bothersome because the frequency of coughing is higher than average. Finally, a nighttime cough occurs during sleep and is exacerbated by lying down. Its causes are varied, as discussed earlier regarding the causes of dry and productive coughs: viral, allergic, or irritation. It can also result from medical treatment. The fact is that as soon as a cough prevents you from sleeping properly, it’s a double whammy. There are, however, natural solutions to help you get through this period and regain uninterrupted, restful sleep.
What are some ways to calm him down?
Of course, the most important thing is to identify the cause of a cough in adults or children and, if necessary, seek medical advice. But aside from that, healthy habits can help relieve a cough and improve sleep if it occurs at night. There are already some good preventive measures to take, such as not overusing air conditioning at home or in the car, since it dries out the air and sudden temperature changes aren’t always easy on the body. Overheating your home in the winter will also tend to dry out the air.
The humidity level in the bedroom affects your health. Ideally, it should be between 40 and 60 percent. To combat excessively dry air, be sure to ventilate the room thoroughly every day. In the winter, you can place a container of water on a running radiator; the water will evaporate and increase the humidity... Finally, using a humidifier can also help if the humidity level remains too low. Before going to bed, you can take a hot shower. The steam relieves coughing by loosening mucus, thereby clearing the airways. To stay warm, natural remedies such as thyme tea —which is considered antibacterial and anti-infectious and soothes the respiratory tract—are true allies for your health.
Combined with honey, which has similar properties, this should help you get a restful night’s sleep. Inhaling steam infused with essential oils helps clear congestion. To do this, simply heat water until it simmers, then add a few drops of suitable essential oils, such as tea tree or ravintsara.
A few minutes after preparing the mixture, place a towel over your head, close your eyes tightly to avoid irritation, and breathe in the steam for about ten minutes (it should remain comfortable, of course). Finally, to help clear secretions at night, sleeping with your head elevated facilitates this process and prevents nighttime coughing fits.