Best Cough Medicine To Stop Coughing At Night
Coughing at night can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, especially when it disturbs your sleep. A cough is usually a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a cold or flu, allergies, or asthma. While it's important to address the underlying cause of your cough, there are many cough medicines available over-the-counter (OTC) that can help alleviate your symptoms and help you get a good night's sleep. In this article, we'll explore the best cough medicine to stop coughing at night.
What Causes Nighttime Coughing?
Before we dive into the best cough medicines for nighttime coughing, let's take a look at some of the common causes of coughing at night.
One of the most common causes of nighttime coughing is postnasal drip, which occurs when mucus from your nose and sinuses drips down the back of your throat while you're lying down. This can irritate your throat and trigger a cough. Other common causes of nighttime coughing include asthma, allergies, acid reflux, and infections such as colds and flu.
Now that we've identified some of the common causes of nighttime coughing, let's take a look at the best cough medicines to help alleviate your symptoms.
1. Dextromethorphan (DM)
Dextromethorphan (DM) is a common ingredient in many OTC cough medicines. It works by suppressing the cough reflex in your brain, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of your cough. DM is particularly effective for dry coughs, which are often more persistent and irritating than productive coughs.
Some popular DM-containing cough medicines include Robitussin DM, Dimetapp DM, and Vicks 44. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
2. Diphenhydramine (DPH)
Diphenhydramine (DPH) is an antihistamine that can help alleviate allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and coughing. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that your body produces in response to allergens. DPH can also help you sleep, which is particularly helpful if your cough is keeping you awake at night.
Some popular DPH-containing cough medicines include Benadryl, Tylenol PM, and Advil PM. Again, always follow the recommended dosage on the label and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
3. Guaifenesin
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that can help loosen mucus in your chest and throat, making it easier to cough up. It works by thinning the mucus, which can help reduce congestion and alleviate your cough. Guaifenesin is particularly effective for productive coughs, which are characterized by mucus production.
Some popular guaifenesin-containing cough medicines include Mucinex, Robitussin Chest Congestion, and Robafen. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
4. Codeine
Codeine is a narcotic cough suppressant that can help alleviate coughing by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. It is often used for severe coughs that are not responding to other treatments. Codeine is only available by prescription and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
While coughing at night can be a frustrating experience, there are many cough medicines available OTC that can help alleviate your symptoms and help you get a good night's sleep. Dextromethorphan, diphenhydramine, guaifenesin, and codeine are all effective cough medicines that can help stop your coughing at night. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.