Why is this cough worse at night and what can I do to relieve it?

[Olivo]

Have had a cough for a couple of weeks, but in the last few days, it has become relentless, often ending with vomiting. Had my chest checked 5 days ago, dr said it was ok. Have been using ventolin and pholcodeine, but now i am exhausted, as it is physically hurting and preventing me sleeping. It is far far worse at night. I am sleeping virtually upright.

Why is it worse at night ( evening, even before I lie down) and is there anything else I can do to relieve it?

[anothergenericname]

Steam inhalation? Prop yourself up in bed?

I have an awful cough, too, and these are the only things helping. I'm 36 weeks pg too, and it feels like my belly is going to split open every time I have a coughing fit. It's miserable - my condolences.

[ToastMakesMeHappy]

Boil the kettle, one teaspoon of honey and a quarter of a fresh lemon. Pour the water in, let it cool and drink before bed. I swear by this.

[ToastMakesMeHappy]

In a mug obviously!

[Kundry]

Ask your doctor about whooping cough if so bad it is making you vomit.

Most coughs unfortunately are worse at night but if yours is still relentless after a couple of weeks, it needs an explanation.

[Olivo]

Oh blimey, can't imagine being pregnant as well, I really feel for you there. Shower etc doesn't seem to help, have been inhaling with menthol. Three pillows in bed but no respite!

Will get some honey tomorrow, not something we have in, but will try anything!

[Olivo]

Uh oh, hope it isn't whooping cough. Have had a cough like this before twice, wouldn't I get immune?

[PuppyMonkey]

Vicks vapo rub on the soles of your feet, pair of socks on, go to bed.

[Olivo]

Had forgotten at out vapo stuff, think I have one for the kids, will definitely try that.

[Kundry]

Whooping cough goes on for weeks and weeks (sorry).

If you always get this another diagnosis would be an exacerbation of asthma - which also has worse cough at night. You mention you have ventolin but do you have a steroid inhaler as well? You may need to step up to the next level of treatment for a while.

[hooker29]

Codeine.
Or anything with antihistamine in to help you sleep.
I had a cough like that 3 years ago and I got some Cough Nurse medicine.It was brilliant-but I've never seen it since!

[Olivo]

I've tried the Boots night time cough medicine, but I woke after a couple of hours and felt awful. Upset tummy on top of cough from hell!

[Olivo]

I haven't had a steroid inhaler for a few years. I guess I could phone tomorrow and ask for one? There'll be something on my records.

[Kundry]

I think you prob need a bit of steroid. Get seen tomorrow and ask for it.

I don't use my Ventolin from one year to the next but as soon as I get a cold I need it and the cough magically disappears with that and a few puff of brown inhaler.

Don't go down the codeine route - your cough is coming from your asthma and is your lungs trying to breathe properly, which is why cough suppressants aren't working for you.

[tallulahturtle]

Whooping cough

[MatildaTheCat]

Whooping cough. Your chest does sound clear unfortunately. I've had it so has DH at a different time. It's not very uncommon but very under diagnosed IMO. You need a specific antibiotic.