Why Your Child Might Be Coughing Disruptively During Sleep?

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Nighttime coughing is a common phenomenon in children and can be a source of concern for many parents. Common causes include colds, allergies, or respiratory issues such as asthma. Notably, coughing often worsens at night due to factors like lying flat, which causes mucus to accumulate in the airways. Other potential causes include pertussis, sinusitis, or upper respiratory tract infections.

According to the American Lung Association (2021), asthma is one of the leading causes of nighttime coughing in children. Typical symptoms include prolonged dry coughing, often occurring after physical activity or exposure to allergens such as pollen. Meanwhile, respiratory infections such as bronchitis or the flu can lead to increased coughing due to irritation of the airway linings.

Some children may cough due to a phenomenon known as “post-nasal drip,” where mucus from the nose drips down the throat. This often occurs when a child has a cold or weather-related allergies, leading to wet coughing and nasal congestion. Additionally, sinusitis can be a contributing factor, especially if the cough lasts more than 10 days and is accompanied by mild fever and pain in the forehead or cheek area.

Pertussis (whooping cough), though less common, is a cause that warrants attention. This condition typically makes children emit a characteristic “whooping” sound as they try to catch their breath between coughing fits. The World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) has emphasized the importance of vaccinations to prevent pertussis, especially in young children.

To help children reduce nighttime coughing, several measures can be implemented, such as elevating the head of the bed to improve air circulation, using a humidifier to alleviate nasal dryness, or ensuring the child stays well-hydrated to thin out mucus. In cases where coughing is accompanied by severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or prolonged high fever, parents should consult a doctor for evaluation.

“Maintaining a clean, dust-free sleeping environment and minimizing exposure to allergens is an effective way to reduce nighttime coughing in children.” — American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (2022)

Finally, parents should avoid administering over-the-counter cough medications to children under 6 years of age without a doctor’s recommendation. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA, 2019), misuse of cough medicines can result in unwanted side effects, especially in young children. If the coughing persists for more than three weeks or is accompanied by other unusual symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.