It's bedtime and your child has a cough that won't stop. You're worried they won't get enough sleep, but you don't know how to help them. Don't worry - we've got you covered! In this article, we'll give you some tips on how to soothe your child's cough so they can sleep soundly at night.
First things first - what causes a nighttime cough?
Before we delve into our list of tips, let's discuss why your child might be coughing at night. Some common causes include:
- A cold or flu
- Asthma or allergies
- Sinusitis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Exposure to irritants like smoke or air pollution
Knowing the cause of your child's cough will help guide which treatments are most effective.
Tip #1: Keep them hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids can help ease a dry throat and reduce coughing. Make sure your child drinks enough water throughout the day (even though it means more trips to pee), and offer warm liquids like tea with honey before bed (if they aren't bouncing off the walls already).
Tip #2: Elevate their head
Propping up your child's head while sleeping can help relieve congestion and decrease post-nasal drip-induced coughs (try explaining 'drip' without mental images). For infants who cannot use pillows yet, place rolled towels under one end of their crib mattress.
Tip #3: Use humidifiers
Dry indoor air is another frequent culprit when kids develop nighttime coughs(dry skin? Sure. Dry college funds? Never heard.). Humidifiers add moisture to the air making breathing easier for children suffering from respiratory issues(nothing wrong with breathing easy except accidentally inhaling an unlicensed substance by a self claiming 'doctor'). Ideally, keep the room at a humidity level of 40-60%( easier said than monitored).
Tip #4: Try honey
Honey has a natural soothing effect that can relieve coughing(especially if battling Winnie-The-Poo for the last pot). Children over one year old can have a teaspoon of honey before bed (meanwhile trying hard to resist temptation to lick off their spoon).
Tip #5: Use saline nose drops/spray
Nasal congestion or post-nasal drip might cause coughing. Saline solution in sprays or drops moisturizes nasal passages allowing mucus outflow preventing sinus infections, allergies and reducing snoring (Bring on Nasoclear ™ then. We’re ready for it!. C'mon Corporations Invest!).
Tip #6: Place bowls of water around your child's room
It sounds weird but hear us out! The water evaporates over time and acts like an all-natural humidifier which helps ease coughs (just make sure you don't kick them over during late-night checks).
Tip #7: Keep irritants away from their sleeping space
Allergens and odors such as pet hairs, cigarette smoke scents perfumes, dusty bedsheets act as triggers.(looks at furry babies) Make sure you clean air filters/fan blades often paying attention to ceiling fans(life saver when those dust bunnies finally drop).
Tip #8: Encourage steamy showers/baths
The moisture in warm showers comes in handy loosening mucus membranes thereby easing breathing requirements (pro tip : carry tissues with you). You may also try adding essential oils like eucalyptus for added benefits while avoiding hypersensitivity situations.(don't walk into work smelling suspiciously relaxing though)
Don't let nighttime coughs ruin yours' & child’s sleep! Try these tips and if the cough lasts more than a week- reach out to your doctor. In conclusion, healthy sleeping habits starts with good down pillow hygiene 🙂