dry cough at night.- inhaler relieves it. is it asthma?
I am 24 y/o with no history of allergies, asthma, or lung diseases. Occasional smoker. Recently, I have developed a hacking cough which worsens at night. Waking me up 2-3 times out of a deep sleep. During the day it gets better. My physician prescribed an inhaler and a cough suppressant but with not much relief. The inhaler works for a short time and does allow me to go back to sleep but it comes back again. Is this asthma..? Is it caused by allergies? Or a virus? Help? this has been going on for a week now.
-thanks
Hi Jenny,
A week isn't very long to fully evaluate your cough, but I can tell you that a nighttime cough that wakes you up is one of the hallmark symptoms of asthma. It could also be related to the postnasal drip common with allergies,which could be worse when you're lying down.
Since the cough IS relieved by using the inhaler, which I presume is a quick-relief type inhaler (Albuterol?), that is further evidence of the possibility of asthma. And the fact that you have never had asthma or allergies in the past is no protection against developing them now or any time in the future. Even senior citizens can develop asthma out of the blue.
If the cough comes back within a few hours, you might need to be on a controller medicine. This is asthma medicine that helps prevent symptoms from starting in the first place. If you DO have asthma, it's better for your long-term health to use a controller inhaler once or twice a day than to use a quick-relief/rescue inhaler one or more times every night.
My suggestion? Talk with your doctor. Update him/her on how you are feeling and ask about the possibility of prescribing a controller medicine. The most effective kind are inhaled steroids, which are very safe, and are sold under brand names such as Flovent, Asmanex, Qvar, and Pulmicort. Singulair, an oral medicine useful for both allergies and asthma, is another option.
You could also ask your doctor about the possibility of a referral to an allergist, who specializes in the treatment of allergies and asthma.
To your health,
Kathi
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Hi JennyRN,
Kathi M. provided very good recommendations in addressing your question.
I see many patients with similar experiences and questions. When they mention (and I always ask) they smoke, even occasionally, I list smoking cessation as one of the top goals of managing their asthma.
Any level of smoking intensifies the inflammatory process in the lung and may reduce lung function at a more rapid rate. Asthma is much more difficult to treat when there is active or passive tobacco inhalation. Total smoking cessation is essential. Establishing a smoke free home and car is important.
If you suspect quitting may be difficult ask your doctor about available smoking cessation programs or medications that may help you.
To Your Health,
J. Thompson, MD
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