Coughing throughout the night

Posted by AZ @equanimous, Apr 9, 2023

I have had a chronic cough since early 2000s. At times so bad that I tore my intercostal muscles between my ribs. UCLA and Kaiser doctors could not figure out the cause. After about 20 years, my pulmonologist finally diagnosed me with bronchiectasis. The only treatment she prescribed was a Rx for Advair. I had regular follow ups with her but the cough continued. I just accepted what was and trusted she knew what she was doing. Last January I had an appt with my Primary Care dr who noticed I hadn't had an xray in a very long time. One was ordered and the results lead to further testing and a bronchoscopy. If it wasn't for my Primary Care dr, I would never would have found out I was positive for MAC! Needless to say, I switched to another pulmonologist who is much more proactive. I am giving mucus samples, getting periodic CT scans, now have a nebulizer, an acapella device and a compression vest that I do 2x per day to help with my mucus plugs.

I have a big problem with coughing at night. Last night I barely got any sleep. I sleep on my back, head on a flat pillow (if I use more than one pillow I get a terrible neck ache), and I use a pillow under my knees. I sleep only on my back. Sleeping on my side causing really bad coughing so I avoid that. I use the NeilMed Sinus Rinse every night, before bed to clear things.

Some nights I am ok. But others....I get a deep tickle in my chest and then the coughing begins. It will stop for a bit and then start up again & this goes on all thru the night. I feel terrible because this not only keeps me awake, it disturbs my poor husband who has been very understanding and supportive.

I have spoken to my dr who prescribed cough med with codeine which I use VERY sparingly. Aside from that, I use Melatonin and take an occasional small dose of Ativan.

I am reaching out to ask if anyone might have a suggestion or observation as to what I can do or stop doing that may help.
In my short time on this site, I've learned a great deal. Knowledge is power and we are a powerful group! Thank you for your support.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the MAC & Bronchiectasis Support Group.

In addition to all the other tips (elevated bed, etc) I recently switched my routine , still doing twice a day, but 2nd nebulizing of duo neb and 7% saline to 8:00 p.m. a pain in the neck, ruins my evenings, but it really works for me. No coughing almost all night. (Until about 4:30 a.m.)

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@woot

In addition to all the other tips (elevated bed, etc) I recently switched my routine , still doing twice a day, but 2nd nebulizing of duo neb and 7% saline to 8:00 p.m. a pain in the neck, ruins my evenings, but it really works for me. No coughing almost all night. (Until about 4:30 a.m.)

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Thank you, woot. I just tried the wedge last night for the first time. I only coughed once and it was a brief one! Only thing, I woke up with a headache. I am going to talk to my physical therapist because the ache was from my neck. Many I need some pointers as to position myself correctly. What a relief to make it through the night without constant coughing!

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@equanimous

Thank you, woot. I just tried the wedge last night for the first time. I only coughed once and it was a brief one! Only thing, I woke up with a headache. I am going to talk to my physical therapist because the ache was from my neck. Many I need some pointers as to position myself correctly. What a relief to make it through the night without constant coughing!

Jump to this post

My answer is a soft squishy bead-filled pillow that supports my neck, but my head is on the mattress when the bed is elevated- works for either back or side sleeping. Maybe you can try it?
Sue
PS If you or your partner has GERD, it is helpful for that as well.

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