You’re ready for sleep—but your cough has other plans. Lying down can allow mucus to collect at the back of your throat or make stomach acid flow upward, triggering irritation and coughing. Postnasal drip and acid reflux are common culprits, but asthma and certain blood-pressure medicines, including lisinopril, can also contribute. Don’t stop prescribed medication yourself; ask your clinician whether an alternative is appropriate. Nighttime coughing sometimes accompanies heart failure, particularly when paired with breathlessness while lying flat or swollen ankles, so these symptoms deserve prompt evaluation. (heart.org)
If reflux is contributing, finish meals at least three hours before bed and consider a wedge that elevates your head and upper torso. (niddk.nih.gov, niddk.nih.gov) Sipping water or taking a little honey may soothe irritation—never give honey to children under one year. (cdc.gov) Arrange a medical review if coughing repeatedly disrupts sleep or lasts longer than three weeks. Seek urgent care for coughing blood, chest pain, or breathing difficulty; severe breathing trouble warrants emergency help. (nhs.uk) Your bedroom should host sweet dreams—not an unsolicited midnight cough concert.
