The asthma night cough is a common symptom of asthma that can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling exhausted during the day. It is characterised by a dry, persistent cough that gets worse at night. The exact causes of asthma night cough are not well understood, but it is thought to be related to changes in hormonal levels and lung function that occur while we sleep.
In this article, we explore the underlying causes and triggers of asthma night cough, treatment options, and home remedies. Remember, managing asthma night cough is possible with the right approach. Don’t let it affect your quality of life and seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Causes and Triggers of Asthma Night Cough
For some people, they experience asthma cough only at night, while for others their asthma cough is worse at night. Understanding why this is the case and the causes and triggers of asthma night cough is essential for effective symptom management. Here are some of the most common causes and triggers of asthma night cough.
Common causes of asthma night cough
- Hormonal changes that occur during sleep can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to asthma symptoms
- Individuals with nighttime acid reflux may experience asthma night cough due to stomach acid irritating the airways
- Certain medications, including beta-blockers and aspirin, can trigger asthma symptoms
Environmental triggers
- Allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites, and pollen, can cause asthma symptoms to worsen at night
- Cold air, high humidity levels, and pollution can also irritate the airways, leading to asthma symptoms
- Exposure to tobacco smoke or other strong smells can trigger asthma night cough
Internal triggers
- Stress and anxiety can cause the body to release adrenaline, which can aggravate asthma symptoms, including coughing
- Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) is a condition where physical activity triggers asthma symptoms, including coughing and wheezing
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can exacerbate asthma symptoms, including coughing, particularly at night
Changes in breathing patterns while sleeping
- When you sleep, your breathing patterns change, and this can affect asthma symptoms
- Lying down can make it harder to breathe, especially if you have a cold or flu
- Constricted airways from inflammation and mucus buildup in the lungs can cause asthma night cough
Learning to recognise and avoid these triggers, where possible, is critical in managing asthma night cough.
Managing Asthma Night Cough
Managing asthma night cough can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of sleep. Here are some tips for managing asthma night cough:
Reduce exposure to environmental triggers
- Identify and avoid triggers such as allergens, dust, and pet dander that can worsen asthma night cough
- Use air purifiers to improve indoor air quality and reduce exposure to pollutants
- Keep your bedroom clean and dust-free to prevent allergens from accumulating
Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
- Practice deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation to help relax the muscles around your airways and improve breathing
- Perform these breathing exercises before going to bed to help prevent asthma night cough
- Use relaxation techniques to control stress, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms
Medications that can alleviate symptoms at night
- Bronchodilators can help open up the airways and relieve symptoms of asthma night cough
- Inhaled corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, making them less likely to constrict during sleep
Lifestyle changes
- Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet to help improve overall asthma management
- Avoid eating late at night and do not consume food that triggers acid reflux
- Avoid smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke as it can worsen asthma symptoms
Asthma Cough at Night: Remedy Suggestions
While there is no cure for asthma, several remedies can help alleviate symptoms of asthma night cough. Here are some remedy suggestions for managing asthma night cough.
Natural remedies like ginger tea and honey
- Ginger tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the airways, thereby reducing asthma symptoms, including coughing
- Honey has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and reduce asthma night cough
The benefits of aromatherapy for asthma management
- Essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender can help reduce asthma symptoms, including coughing at night
- Aromatherapy can help calm the mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety levels, which can also trigger asthma symptoms
Alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage
- Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and improve lung function, leading to reduced asthma symptoms
- Massage therapy can help relax the muscles around the airways, reducing constriction and improving breathing
It is essential to remember that natural remedies and alternative therapies should be used alongside medical treatment prescribed by a doctor. It is also essential to discuss any new remedies or treatments with your doctor before trying them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, asthma night cough is a common symptom of asthma that can cause significant discomfort and sleep disturbances. By understanding the causes and triggers of asthma night cough, you can take steps to manage your symptoms effectively.
Managing asthma night cough should include a combination of environmental management, lifestyle changes, medications, natural remedies and alternative therapies. It is important to work with your doctor to develop a personalised treatment plan that works best for you.
Remember, taking an active role in managing your asthma night cough symptoms can significantly improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice as soon as possible and be open to trying new remedies or treatments. With the right approach, managing asthma night cough is possible.
