Not all coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite drink without issues. Some experience an irritating problem: coffee makes them cough. But why does this happen?
Coffee can trigger coughing due to its acidity, caffeine sensitivity, effects on the respiratory system, heat and steam, and its dehydrating properties.
Causes listed from most common to least common:
- Acidic Irritation – Coffee’s natural acidity can irritate the throat and esophagus, leading to coughing.
- Caffeine Sensitivity – Caffeine can increase acid production, potentially causing acid reflux and throat irritation.
- Respiratory Effects – Caffeine affects the airways and can sometimes trigger a cough reflex.
- Allergic Reactions – Some people may have mild allergic reactions to compounds in coffee, leading to throat irritation and coughing.
- Dehydration – Coffee is a diuretic, which can contribute to throat dryness and irritation.
It’s important to note that not everyone who drinks coffee will experience coughing. However, if you find that coffee consistently makes you cough, there are steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms.
Why Coffee Makes Some People Cough
Coffee is a popular beverage enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Sadly, for some individuals, drinking coffee can lead to coughing and discomfort. If you are one of those people who experience coughing after drinking coffee: You might be lucky. In this post, we will discover some of the reasons why coffee can make you cough.
1. Acidic Irritation
Coffee is naturally acidic due to compounds like chlorogenic and quinic acid. While this acidity contributes to coffee’s rich flavor, it can also irritate the esophagus and throat. This irritation can cause coughing, throat discomfort, and even lead to chronic throat clearing.
How Acid Affects the Throat:
- Coffee’s acidity can inflame sensitive throat tissues.
- Acid reflux may worsen with coffee, leading to irritation and coughing.
- Lighter roasts tend to be more acidic than darker roasts.
Solutions:
- Try low-acid coffee beans, such as Sumatra or Brazilian varieties.
- Drink coffee with milk or cream to help neutralize acidity.
- Consider cold brew coffee, which is less acidic than hot brewed coffee.
2. Caffeine Sensitivity
Caffeine is a natural stimulant that affects the digestive system by increasing stomach acid production. This acid can reflux into the esophagus and irritate the throat, triggering a cough reflex.
Effects of Caffeine on the Body:
- Stimulates acid production, potentially causing reflux.
- May relax the esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to flow upward.
- Can contribute to irritation in the throat.
Solutions:
- Switch to decaffeinated coffee if caffeine triggers reflux.
- Reduce overall coffee intake or drink it in moderation.
- Avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach.
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3. Respiratory Effects
Caffeine has complex effects on the respiratory system. While it can act as a bronchodilator and improve airflow (this is why caffeine is sometimes used as a treatment for asthma and other respiratory conditions.), it may also cause airway sensitivity in some individuals, leading to coughing.
How Caffeine Affects the Airways:
- Can temporarily widen airways, but may also cause dryness.
- In some individuals, it triggers a cough reflex.
- People with asthma or respiratory issues may be more sensitive.
Solutions:
- If coffee consistently triggers coughing, consider consulting a doctor.
- Try drinking smaller amounts of coffee to gauge tolerance.
- Stay hydrated to prevent throat dryness.
4. Allergic Reactions
Some people may experience mild allergic reactions to compounds in coffee, such as proteins in coffee beans or additives used during processing. These reactions can cause throat irritation and coughing.
Signs of Coffee Sensitivity or Allergy:
- Scratchy throat or mild swelling.
- Increased mucus production leading to throat clearing.
- Coughing immediately after drinking coffee.
Solutions:
- Test different coffee brands to see if the reaction persists.
- Avoid flavored or heavily processed coffee, as additives may be the cause.
- If symptoms persist, consult an allergist.
5. Dehydration
Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. A dry throat is more susceptible to irritation, which can cause coughing.
How Coffee Leads to Throat Dryness:
- Increases fluid loss, leading to dehydration.
- A dry throat is more prone to irritation and coughing.
- Caffeine has a mild drying effect on the body.
Solutions:
- Drink plenty of water alongside your coffee.
- Reduce coffee consumption if you frequently experience dryness.
- Consider herbal tea or decaf coffee as alternatives.
FAQ – Coffee Makes Me Cough
Why do I cough after I drink coffee?
Coffee’s acidity can irritate the throat, and caffeine may trigger airway sensitivity. If you have acid reflux or respiratory issues, coffee can worsen symptoms, leading to coughing.
Why does coffee tickle my throat?
The acidity in coffee can irritate your throat lining, creating a tickling sensation. Caffeine may also stimulate your airways, making them more sensitive and prone to coughing.
Why do I cough when I drink Starbucks?
Starbucks coffee is often strong and acidic, which can irritate the throat. If you’re sensitive to acidity or caffeine, switching to a milder roast may help.
Does coffee enhance coughing?
Yes, its acidity can cause throat irritation, and caffeine may dry out or stimulate your airways, leading to coughing. If you’re sensitive, opt for low-acid or decaf coffee.
What is coffee throat?
“Coffee throat” refers to irritation or discomfort in the throat after drinking coffee, often caused by acidity. Switching to a less acidic brew or adding milk can help reduce irritation.
If you liked this blog post about the topic: Coffee Makes Me Cough, don’t forget to leave us a comment down below to tell us about your experience with it.
Very informative. Every time I’ve had Starbucks mocha frappe or my morning coffee. I cough. I never smoked so I looked this up and your article is just great.
Hi Diane, we are glad you found this article helpful! Hearing about your experience with coffee and coughing is really interesting — thank you for sharing!