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Real members of MyCOPDTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My husband can't lay down to sleep. Because of coughing. He has two pillows. His appetate is not good. Eats maybe two bites then he is done.

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Auburn, CA
February 7
 · 
Be the first to react
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I like all these solutions, especially sitting up more in bed. Two pillows aren't good for much. Three helps a little more. Also, several 'grazing' meals a day work better for me in lots of ways, but if I'm not careful I slide into too many calories.

February 7
A MyCOPDTeam Member

WEDGE PILLOW. You sleep sitting-halfway up. I use a soft pillow for my buttocks to keep me from slidin-off the wedge.
COUGH DROPS. Good ones that work AND tastes good.
FRUIT, Softly Cood Fresh Veggies, real beef or turkey hot dogs.

February 7
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Sometimes i sleep in my recliner

February 18
MyCOPDTeam

How can your husband manage nighttime coughing and poor appetite with COPD?

For the Nighttime Coughing:

Lying flat can restrict airways and trigger coughing in people with COPD. Two pillows may not be enough elevation. Here are some options to try:

- Stack more pillows to create a more upright sitting position
- Use a Show Full Answer

How can your husband manage nighttime coughing and poor appetite with COPD?

For the Nighttime Coughing:

Lying flat can restrict airways and trigger coughing in people with COPD. Two pillows may not be enough elevation. Here are some options to try:

- Stack more pillows to create a more upright sitting position
- Use a wedge pillow designed for sleeping elevated
- Consider sleeping in a recliner if available
- Try a humidifier in the bedroom to help ease airways

A MyCOPDTeam member shared: "With asthma and COPD, lying flat in bed soon creates a restriction in my airways. I have tried stacking pillows so that I am in a sitting position, which helps a little."

If the coughing continues to disrupt sleep, it's important to talk with his healthcare provider. Sleep apnea or other conditions might be contributing, and treatments like a CPAP machine could help. For the Poor Appetite:

Loss of appetite is common with COPD. The increased effort of breathing burns more calories, and chronic coughing can make chewing and swallowing difficult. Here's what might help:

- Try several small meals throughout the day instead of large ones
- Offer foods that are easier to eat and don't require much chewing
- Make sure he stays hydrated
- Consider meeting with a registered dietitian who can suggest ways to get enough calories and protein

Weight loss can weaken the body further, so it's important to address this with his healthcare team. They can check if medications or other factors are affecting his appetite and suggest strategies to maintain a healthy weight.

February 7

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