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23 years
Whenever I start falling asleep, I suddenly cough and wake up with phlegm in my throat. This also happens to me a lot when I wake up. I always have phlegm in my throat and I can't get rid of it.
Jun 14, 2013

Dr. Karim Farah Pulmonology
you are describing the symptoms of post nasal drip. you need intranasal steroids and antihistamine therapy for at least 4 weeks.
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Dr. Rania Mousa General Medicine
From your symptoms it is post nasal drip as Dr Karim says
Symptoms of post-nasal drip include difficulty swallowing, feeling like there's a lump in your throat, coughing, a constant need to clear your throat and hoarseness.
most common causes might include:
-allergies to pollen, mold, dust or dander
-infections such as the common cold (CMV, RSV, adenovirus etc. . . ), influenza, sinusitis, swallowing disorders
-pregnancy or other fluctuation of hormone levels
-dehydration
-eating spicy foods
-eating too many dairy products, especially if you're not drinking enough water
-low humidity in the air
-certain medications like birth control and drugs that control blood pressure
-over-use of nasal sprays such as pseudoephedrine
-anatomical abnormalities such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates
-acid reflux (GERD)
-weather changes
Treatment :
Try to treat the cause ,you can know the cause depending on the sumptoms accompanied with,
- if it is allergy use anti histamine ,avoid the triggers,you can use decongestant but not more than 3 days after doctor prescription
- if it is acid reflux(if you have night waking up coughs,you have heartburn,...|) then
Try an over-the-counter antacid.
Don't eat before bedtime.
Avoid trigger foods, such as chocolate, soda pop, or spicy foods.
Sleep in an elevated position instead of lying flat,If acid reflux persists, see a doctor.
-if it is from sinusitis or cold infections then you must see a doctor to prescribe antibiotics if needed,antihistamine ,steroid nasal sprays ...
FOR THE MEAN TIME :
use saline nasal sprays
drink lot of water to make your mucus thin
gargle with warm salt water
dont eat before sleeping
elevate your pillow when sleeping
try over the counter nasal sprays
if the symptoms persist consult ENT doctor
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