Cough worse in the morning
A cough that is worst in the morning typically relates to overnight accumulation of mucus in the airways, which the body tries to clear upon waking. It is a classic symptom of chronic bronchitis and COPD in smokers. Post-nasal drip pooling overnight and morning reflux episodes are other common triggers.
Conditions that commonly cause cough worse in the morning
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Common Causes of Cough worse in the morning
- Chronic bronchitis (smoker's cough)
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Post-nasal drip accumulation overnight
- Bronchiectasis
- Allergic rhinitis (dust mite exposure in bedding)
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care for Cough worse in the morning
These signs may indicate a serious problem — don't wait, seek medical care right away:
- See a doctor if morning cough is daily, produces discoloured or blood-streaked phlegm, is worsening over weeks, or you are a current or former smoker.
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