Once in a while I get up coughing but it seems like phlegm in my throat. I do sleep with my head propped but this was even before diagnosed with MG.
August 18
Nighttime coughing is something others with myasthenia gravis can relate to! One MGteam member described swallowing a sip of coffee the wrong way and coughing much longer than usual, feeling like it wouldn't stop.
This kind of coughing can be linked to swallowing difficulties (called dysphagia), which is common in MG. When Show Full Answer
Nighttime coughing is something others with myasthenia gravis can relate to! One MGteam member described swallowing a sip of coffee the wrong way and coughing much longer than usual, feeling like it wouldn't stop.
This kind of coughing can be linked to swallowing difficulties (called dysphagia), which is common in MG. When throat and tongue muscles are weakened, small amounts of liquid or food can slip into the airway — even during sleep. Here are a few things that may help reduce nighttime coughing related to swallowing issues:
- Elevate your head while sleeping to reduce the chance of fluids slipping into your airway
- Avoid eating or drinking close to bedtime
- Thicken liquids if thin fluids seem to trigger coughing
- Take smaller sips throughout the day to practice safer swallowing
It's worth mentioning this symptom to your neurologist, especially if it's happening frequently or getting worse. They can assess whether your MG is affecting your swallowing muscles and suggest targeted strategies or therapies.
August 17
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