I have a severe cough that only occurs at night, and lasts for about 2 hours, 3-4 hours after i have already fallen asleep -why? this has been happening every night for 2 weeks now. i have only been able to fall back asleep once awakened by the cough by t

Hello. : Hello. I can't diagnose the cause of your symptoms. However, since you are getting the symptoms when supine it brings up possibilities like post nasal drip or gastrointestinal reflux. You may wish to sleep with your head raised. This can be done with firm pillows or by placing an object under the mattress. It is important to hydrate well, to allow you to expel mucus. Something like tessalon perles is very simple and can cut down on coughing from post nasal drip. Sometimes codiene is prescribed for uncontrollable coughs. If this doesn't resolve soon, consider seeing your physician to determine the cause and from there can work on solutions. Take care.

I : I agree with dr. Fowlers answer and would only add the following: asthma should be ruled out as well. You do not report any symptoms of infection, and have already tried treating it as a reflux related problem. Undiagnosed asthma often presents as an unexplained cough (particulaly at night), especially this time of year when allergy symptoms appear. We've had an early spring here in wisconsin and predictions are for a 'bad' allergy season. Remember, asthma is a condition that can show up at any age and may or may not be associated with wheezing and allergies. A breathing test ordered by your physician is used to diagnose the problem.

Medication side effe: Some people have these symptoms when taking ace inhibitors. Che3ck with your primary care doctor regarding any and all me3ds you take.