The National Health Service has issued a specific warning to individuals suffering from a persistent cough as a symptom of COVID-19, advising them to avoid a common sleeping position that could worsen their condition.
The crucial sleep advice for a Covid cough
With colder weather sweeping across the UK, the risk of contracting seasonal viruses like COVID-19, colds, and flu increases significantly. These illnesses thrive in lower temperatures and spread more easily as people spend more time indoors.
While most people recover from COVID-19 within days or weeks without needing medical intervention, the NHS emphasises the importance of adequate rest during recovery. The health service recommends staying home and avoiding contact with others if you have symptoms and feel too unwell for normal activities.
For those experiencing a cough – particularly a 'continuous' cough characterised by coughing frequently for over an hour, or having three or more coughing episodes within 24 hours – the NHS offers targeted guidance.
Why your sleeping position matters
The NHS explicitly states: 'Do not lie on your back if you have a cough – lie on your side or sit upright instead.'
This recommendation is supported by medical expert Dr Elizabeth Rainbolt, who explained to the Cleveland Clinic that lying flat on your back can aggravate postnasal drip. For those with a dry cough, she advises that sleeping on your side can help reduce throat irritation.
Dr Rainbolt further elaborated: 'Elevating your head is probably the best sleeping position. Whether it's by adding another pillow or raising the head of your bed, this can help your cough by not allowing drainage to collect at the back of your throat too much.'
Other Covid symptoms and recovery tips
Beyond coughing, the NHS identifies several other COVID-19 indicators including:
- A high temperature or shivering
- Loss or change to sense of smell or taste
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Body aches and headaches
- Sore throat and blocked or runny nose
- Loss of appetite, diarrhoea, or nausea
While there isn't always a specific treatment for COVID-19, the NHS suggests several methods to ease symptoms and support recovery:
- Get plenty of rest
- Stay well hydrated by drinking water
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if uncomfortable
- Try a teaspoon of honey for cough relief (not for babies under 12 months)
- For breathlessness: sit upright, breathe slowly through your nose and out through your mouth, and avoid using fans that might spread the virus
Individuals with a persistent cough are encouraged to speak with a pharmacist about available treatments. For more detailed information, visit the official NHS website.
