There are several reasons why a cold may feel worse at night:
- Nasal congestion: When you lie down, the mucus in your nose and sinuses can accumulate and cause congestion, making it harder to breathe through your nose. This can lead to snoring, mouth breathing, and a dry mouth, all of which can make you feel more uncomfortable.
- Coughing: Coughing can also worsen at night, as lying down can cause mucus to accumulate in the back of the throat, triggering a cough reflex. In addition, a dry throat and mouth from mouth breathing can also worsen coughing.
- Body aches: A cold can cause muscle aches and pains, which can be more noticeable at night when you’re lying still and not distracted by other activities.
- Sleep disruption: When you’re sick, your body is working hard to fight off the infection, and this can cause your body to release chemicals that can interfere with your sleep. Lack of sleep can make you feel more tired and rundown, and can also weaken your immune system, making it harder to recover from the cold.
Overall, a combination of physical discomfort and sleep disruption can make a cold feel worse at night. It’s important to stay hydrated, use a humidifier, and take over-the-counter medications as directed to help relieve your symptoms and get a good night’s sleep.
