Why do I cough at night but not during the day?

Coughing at night without coughing during the day may be caused by dry sleeping environments, improper sleeping posture, pre-sleep dietary stimulation, cough variant asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other factors. Appropriate management can be selected according to specific situations. If physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.

1. Dry sleeping environment: During nighttime sleep, if the indoor air is excessively dry, moisture from the respiratory mucosa may be lost, causing dryness and sensitivity, which can trigger coughing. Using a humidifier in the bedroom to maintain air humidity between 40%-60% can help relieve respiratory dryness and reduce coughing. Additionally, drinking an appropriate amount of water before bedtime can moisten the respiratory tract.

2. Improper sleeping posture: Prolonged supine position during sleep may cause the base of the tongue to fall back, potentially blocking part of the airway and irritating it, leading to coughing. It is recommended to try adjusting to a lateral position, which helps maintain airway patency and reduces coughing episodes.

3. Pre-sleep dietary stimulation: Eating too much in the evening, consuming spicy or greasy foods, or drinking stimulants like coffee or strong tea before bedtime may lead to acid reflux into the esophagus, irritating the throat and causing coughing. Dinner should be eaten in moderation, avoiding stimulative foods and beverages. It is best not to eat for 2-3 hours before bedtime.

4. Cough variant asthma: This condition is usually caused by chronic airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness. It often occurs at night or in the early morning hours, manifesting as an irritating dry cough, typically without prominent asthma symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath. Patients can use medications such as salmeterol fluticasone inhalation powder, montelukast sodium tablets, and salbutamol aerosol under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.

5. Chronic bronchitis: This condition is commonly caused by long-term smoking, air pollution, infections, and other factors, resulting in chronic nonspecific inflammation of the bronchial mucosa and surrounding tissues. Symptoms include coughing and phlegm production, particularly during sleep when parasympathetic nerve activity increases bronchial secretions, stimulating the airway and triggering coughing. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, ambroxol hydrochloride tablets, and aminophylline tablets to relieve discomfort.

In daily life, maintaining good living habits and dietary practices can also help prevent and alleviate coughing symptoms.