Why does my cough seem to get worse at night?

A cough can feel worse at night because lying flat allows mucus from the nose and sinuses to drip into the throat, which can cause irritation. Stomach acid can also travel upward more easily when lying down, triggering coughing. Some conditions, such as asthma, can worsen at night as the airways become more sensitive. Dry or cold air may also irritate the airways and increase coughing at night. If the cough lasts more than a few weeks or becomes severe, you should seek medical advice.

I am breastfeeding and have a dry cough. Which cough syrup is safe for me to take while breastfeeding?

For a dry cough while breastfeeding, cough syrups containing dextromethorphan are generally considered safe when used at normal doses. Avoid syrups with codeine or strong sedating antihistamines, as they may affect the baby or milk supply. You can also use simple supportive measures, such as warm fluids and honey, if suitable for you. If the cough persists or worsens, it is best to consult a doctor for personalised advice.

I have been suffering from a cough. Could you please suggest some cough syrups that might help?

A cough can be dry or wet, and the treatment depends on its type. For a dry (non-productive) cough, a suppressant syrup containing dextromethorphan may help, while for a wet (productive) cough, an expectorant such as guaifenesin can help loosen mucus. Warm fluids, honey, and rest may also provide relief. It is best to consult a doctor to determine the cause of your cough and receive appropriate treatment.

I have a cold, cough and body pain. Could you please advise me on what might be causing these symptoms?

Your symptoms are most commonly caused by a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. These infections can cause cough, sore throat, body pains, tiredness and sometimes a mild fever as your immune system responds to the virus. In most cases, it improves within a few days with rest, fluids, and simple pain-relief medicines, if needed. If your symptoms become severe, persist for more than a week, or you develop a high fever or breathing difficulty, please seek medical advice.

I have a cough, cold, and headache, and I have a history of migraines. Are these symptoms related, and how should I manage them?

Your symptoms are often related, as a viral cold can lead to a cough, a blocked nose, and a headache, and may also trigger migraines in people who have a history of them. The headache may be part of the infection itself or a migraine flare-up caused by congestion, physical stress, and dehydration. You can manage these symptoms by resting, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if suitable. Continue your usual migraine treatment if it has been prescribed, and seek medical advice if your symptoms worsen or last more than a week.

I have a cold, cough, and sore throat. How should I treat it?

Take rest, drink plenty of warm fluids such as water or herbal tea, and get adequate sleep to help your body recover. For a sore throat and cough, you can try warm salt water gargles and use simple over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol and cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan. Avoid cold foods, smoking, and irritants, and keep your throat warm and hydrated. If symptoms last more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever or breathing difficulty, consult a doctor promptly.