May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Coughs Why am I having an irritating, dry cough only at night?
Why am I having an irritating, dry cough only at night? |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Several weeks ago, I developed a sore throat and swollen glands. This eased after about 3 days, but was followed by harsh, dry cough, which was especially bad at night. I tried several over-the-counter remedies, but nothing helped, and it took about 3 weeks for the cough to settle. Now, about a month later, I have the same symptoms. Three days ago I got the sore throat, and I lost my voice almost completely for about a day. The throat has eased, but I now have the dry cough again. It's keeping me awake all night, and I have to keep sitting up during a coughing fit. It feels as though the cough is coming from deep within my throat, not my chest, and my throat feels swollen around the thyroid area. Do you have any advice that might help ease it? Do you think I need to visit my GP? I don't want another 3 weeks of not sleeping. Thank you! Dear Cheryl: Yes you definitely need to see your GP. You may have had laryngitis that was probably why you lost your voice a few days ago. It is possible some inflammation is still there and has not completely resolved yet. Another cause of irritating, dry cough, especially at night is reflux disease, aka GERD. The backflow of acid from the stomach can reach the oesophagus and sometimes the throat, which initiates the cough reflex. Coughing is especially worse at night because acid production peaks during that time and lying down would also facilitate backflow of acid (as compared to standing up, which is against gravity). A trial of antacids might help your condition. There are those you can get over-the-counter, but usually the prescription antacids are more effective. Avoid coffee, pop, and tea, smoking (if you are a smoker) because this also increases acid production. Nonetheless, you should still see your doctor so the condition can be confirmed or other causes (allergic cough) can be entertained. I do hope I have answered your question and take care always. |
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| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 10 August 2011 ) |
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