If you’re experiencing a cough, you might be having difficulties getting a good night’s sleep. Coughing can be disruptive and even the most comfortable bed can’t make up for a night of disrupted sleep. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help make the process of sleeping with a cough a bit easier. Read on to learn 12 tips for getting restful sleep when you have a cough.
1. Try an anti-cough medication. Over-the-counter anti-cough medications like dextromethorphan (DM) or benzonatate can help suppress your cough so that you can get a better night’s rest. It’s best to take these medications just before bed to ensure that they don’t wear off while you’re sleeping.
2. Stay hydrated. Dehydration can make your cough worse, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day and especially before bed.
3. Use saline nasal spray. Saline nasal sprays can help thin mucus and make it easier to breathe. Plus, they can help reduce your cough.
4. Take a hot shower. Taking a hot shower can help loosen and thin mucus, making it easier to breathe and coughing less frequent.
5. Use a humidifier. Using a humidifier in your bedroom at night can help reduce your cough by adding moisture to the air. This can help reduce inflammation in your airways and make breathing easier.
6. Elevate your head. Prop up your head and shoulders on extra pillows to help reduce throat irritation and make it easier to breathe.
7. Stay away from triggers. If certain foods or activities tend to trigger your coughing, try to avoid them before bed.
8. Use an over-the-counter medication. If your cough is due to allergies or a cold, there are a variety of over-the-counter medications that can help reduce your symptoms.
9. Avoid caffeine late in the day. Caffeine can interfere with your sleep, so it’s best to avoid it at least four hours before bedtime.
10. Take a warm bath. Taking a warm bath before bed can help loosen phlegm in your chest and throat, making it easier to breathe.
11. Sleep on your side or stomach. Sleeping on your back can make coughing worse, so try to sleep on your side or stomach instead.
12. Try herbal remedies. Certain herbs such as honey, ginger, licorice root, and marshmallow root can help reduce coughing and promote relaxation.
Getting restful sleep when you have a cough can be difficult, but it is possible. Try some of these tips and find the ones that work best for you. You’ll be sleeping like a baby in no time.
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