middleportal.com – A dry cough is a common and annoying problem that can keep you awake at night and interfere with your sleep quality. A dry cough does not produce any mucus or phlegm, and it may be caused by various factors, such as allergies, asthma, acid reflux, viral infections, or environmental irritants.
Fortunately, there are some simple and effective ways to stop a dry cough at night and get a good night’s rest. Here are some tips and tricks from experts that you can try at home:
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help soothe your throat and prevent the mucus from thickening in your airways. You can also drink warm tea, soup, or honey before bed to help relax your throat muscles and ease your cough.
- Prop up your head. Elevating your head with pillows can help prevent the mucus or stomach acid from pooling in your throat and triggering your cough reflex. This can also help you breathe better and reduce snoring.
- Use a humidifier or a vaporizer. Adding moisture to the air can help lubricate your throat and airways, and reduce the irritation caused by dry air. You can also inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or a shower before bed to help clear away the mucus and open up your nasal passages.
- Gargle with salt water or herbal tea. Gargling with warm salt water or chamomile, sage, or blackberry tea can help reduce the swelling and inflammation in your throat and soothe your cough. Salt water can also provide minerals that boost your immune system and fight off infections.
- Avoid trigger foods and drinks. Some foods and drinks can worsen your cough by causing acid reflux or increasing mucus production. These include fatty, spicy, or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine. Try to avoid these foods and drinks before bed or eat them in moderation.
- Take over-the-counter medications. If your cough is persistent and bothersome, you can try taking some over-the-counter medications to suppress your cough and relieve your symptoms. These include cough syrups, lozenges, antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers. However, be sure to follow the directions on the label and consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have any other health conditions or allergies.
A dry cough at night can be a nuisance, but it doesn’t have to ruin your sleep. By following these tips and tricks from experts, you can stop your dry cough at night and enjoy a peaceful and restful sleep. However, if your cough lasts for more than two weeks, is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, chest pain, or blood, or interferes with your daily activities, you should see your doctor as soon as possible to rule out any serious underlying causes.
