Night cough is a very common and frustrating problem. It leaves you tired, restless and desperate for relief. That sudden cough in the night breaks the silence and often keeps your family awake as well.
But here’s something worth trying. Instead of reaching for another pill or syrup, consider what your own body can do.
Acupressure, this ancient natural technique has been used for centuries to ease everything from pain to stress and yes, even stubborn coughs.
At Kaizen Health Group, our trained therapists guide you in using these healing points safely and effectively. Gentle pressure in the right spots can calm your lungs, open your chest and help you breathe easy without any medication just right from your bed.
Understanding Pressure Points: How They Work
Pressure points, also known as acupressure points, are specific areas of the body where energy pathways (or “meridians”) meet. When gently pressed, they can help release tension, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation and support immune function.
And when it comes to nighttime coughs, certain pressure points can:
- Open the airways
- Soothe throat irritation
- Calm the nervous system
- Break up mucus congestion
Experience Natural Relief from Nighttime Coughing—Book a Session with our Expert Therapists in Mississauga today!
Top Acupressure Points to Relieve Nighttime Coughing
1. Lung Meridian (LU-5): Soothing the Source of Coughing
Location: Inside of the Elbow
Why it helps: Directly linked to the lungs, this point helps relax the respiratory muscles and clear blocked airways.
How to Apply:
- Sit comfortably and bend your arm slightly.
- Use your thumb to press gently on the point inside your elbow crease.
- Hold for 1-2 minutes while breathing deeply.
This technique helps soothe the lungs, making it easier to breathe and reducing the urge to cough.
2. KI-27 (Kidney Meridian) – Opening Up the Airways
Location: Just below the collarbone, near the midline
Why it helps: Stimulating KI-27 clears chest tightness and supports deeper, easier breathing—especially helpful for night coughs.
How to Apply:
- Press gently under the collarbone with your fingertips.
- Massage in circular motions for about 2 minutes.
This pressure point is particularly effective for nighttime coughing that disrupts sleep, as it promotes deeper, more relaxed breathing.
3. PC-6 (Pericardium Meridian) – Calming the Throat
Location: Inner wrist, three finger-widths below the crease
Why it helps: Known to soothe throat irritation and calm coughing fits, especially when anxiety or restlessness is involved.
How to Apply:
- Turn your palm upward.
- Press the point using your thumb for 1–2 minutes.
- Repeat on the other wrist.
This technique not only helps soothe the throat but also encourages relaxation, which is essential for a good night’s sleep.
4. CV-17 (Conception Vessel) – Releasing Chest Tightness
- Location: Center of the chest, over the breastbone
- Why it helps: Helps open the chest and supports deep, full breathing.
How to Apply:
- Sit or lie down comfortably.
- Use your fingers to press gently on the point.
- Hold for 1–2 minutes while breathing slowly.
Regularly stimulating this point can help reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing at night.
5. Stomach Meridian (ST-36): Boosting Overall Immunity
- Location: About four finger-widths below the kneecap, slightly to the outside of the leg
- Why it helps: While not directly tied to the lungs, ST-36 strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation—important for recovery from colds or respiratory infections.
How to Apply:
- Use your thumb to press firmly on the point for about 2 minutes.
- Repeat on the other leg.
This point strengthens your immune system, helping your body fight off the underlying causes of coughing.
You can also read: Get Rid of a Sore Throat Fast with Acupressure Therapy
Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Pressure Points
Here are some tips on how to manage pressure points for cough.
- Apply Firm, Focused Pressure
Use consistent, steady pressure to stimulate the point. Not too hard, but enough to feel slight tenderness or warmth. This helps relax muscles and restore energy flow. - Pair with Deep Breathing
Slow, controlled breaths amplify the calming effects. Inhale deeply as you press. Exhale fully as you release. - Be Consistent
Don’t expect instant results after one session. The key is to practice acupressure regularly, once or twice a day for a week can create noticeable changes. - Consult a Professional
A trained therapist can guide you in technique and show you how to customize pressure point therapy based on your symptoms and overall health. - Combine with Other Natural Therapies
Pair acupressure with:
– Herbal teas (like licorice root or ginger)
– Steam inhalation
– Light stretching
– Elevated sleeping positionsThese combinations support your body’s natural healing process and ease nighttime coughing even more effectively.
- Try an Acupressure Wristband
For on-the-go support, acupressure wristbands apply continuous pressure on key points. They’re especially useful for motion sickness, nausea, or persistent throat-related coughs.
Special Considerations for Children
Acupressure can be safely used with children when done gently and with care.
- Pressure: Use light, steady pressure—never firm or deep.
- Duration: 30–60 seconds on each point is enough for children.
- Focus Points: LU5 (inside of the elbow) and KI-27 (just below the collarbone) are safe and effective.
- When in doubt: If your child has persistent coughing, breathing difficulty, or fever, consult a healthcare provider before trying acupressure.
When to See a Doctor
Acupressure is great for mild to moderate coughs, but you should consult a doctor if you experience:
- Fever over 101°F
- Blood in mucus
- Wheezing or breathing difficulty
- Cough lasting more than 10 days
These signs may indicate an infection or an underlying issue needing medical attention.
Summing Up: Simple, Natural, and Effective
You don’t have to lose sleep over a night cough. With just a few minutes of guided acupressure, you can get relief within minutes. These pressure points are simple, natural, and surprisingly effective when done right.
If you’re not sure how to apply them correctly, our trained therapists are here to help. Book your session in Mississauga today and let us guide you to calmer nights.
How can I stop a constant cough in my child at night?
Use a cool-mist humidifier, elevate the head slightly, offer warm fluids, and try a gentle back massage or acupressure before bed.
What’s the best acupressure point for throat infection?
LU11 and CV22 are most effective. LU11 clears heat from the lungs, while CV22 opens the throat and eases tension.
Is there a hand pressure point to stop coughing?
Yes. LI4, located between the thumb and index finger, can help calm coughing when pressed gently for 1–2 minutes. For best results, repeat this 3–4 times a day or every few hours as needed to manage coughing effectively.
Which acupressure points are safe for children with a cough?
Use gentle pressure on LU5 (inside of the elbow) and K27 (just below the collarbone) to support easier breathing.
Can acupressure help with an itchy or ticklish throat?
Yes. LI4 and GB20 help reduce irritation and nerve sensitivity that cause itchy throats.
Is it okay to massage the throat directly?
Lightly pressing CV22 is safe. Avoid massaging swollen or painful glands unless under professional guidance.
