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Respiratory health

Why do I cough more at night or first thing in the morning?

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By , Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
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People may cough more at night or in the morning due to phlegm or throat irritation that affects the airways when they’re lying flat. Coughing helps clear mucus and other secretions that collect there.

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About the Author

photo of Maureen Salamon

Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch

Maureen Salamon is the executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She also writes for the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch, as well as for Harvard Health Publishing’s flagship website. … See Full Bio
View all posts by Maureen Salamon

About the Reviewer

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Jessica McCannon, MD, Contributor

Dr. Jessica McCannon is a member of the Mass General Brigham division of pulmonary and critical care medicine, and is the director for faculty advancement in the division. She practices pulmonary medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital … See Full Bio
View all posts by Jessica McCannon, MD
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