Sudden and incessant coughing during prayer/Mass

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melvfe

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Hi all, I have been experiencing a sudden cough during Mass or prayer (rosary, praying the Bible) over the past few years. (Don’t worry, it’s not Covid) I feel like something’s choking me and I can’t say anything properly without the cough exacerbating. I do try to mentally pray but the cough still continues. When Mass or prayer ends, the cough miraculously stops.

Does anyone here have any idea what’s happening to me? Also, is there any effective prayer to stop it?

(I’ve got a s**ual addiction, so I am beginning to suspect that it might be the devil being angry that I am praying to God.)

Perhaps, it would be good if a priest can answer this. Thank you.
 
If you’re looking for pastoral advice, this is not the proper place. You should contact your local pastor.
 
As a singer, I have found that whenever I worry about coughing is when I am unable to stop coughing. Its sort of like yawning. The suggestion of coughing is often enough to trigger it. Focus on your prayer and if you start to cough, cough and then ignore it and focus on the prayer.
 
He’s been busy because of the COVID-19 situation? If so, give him some time, I’m sure he’s trying to get to everyone as soon as he can within his limits.
 
melvfe said:
Does anyone here have any idea what’s happening to me?
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Coughing is happening to you. Your first priority is to rule out any potential allergens, e.g. incense, springtime allergies, or perfume worn by parishioners. Then look to other possible medical conditions.
melvfe said:
Also, is there any effective prayer to stop it?
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Perhaps. But more important, your doctor might want to know.
melvfe said:
it might be the devil being angry that I am praying to God.
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No, your attendance at Mass will have scared off the enemy. Go in peace, and consult with your health care provider.
 
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I agree that this is something you need to discuss with your priest, but while you are waiting for his advice I have some suggestions for what you can do.

Firstly, it is important to avoid all sin. Failing that, you need to repent and resolve to confess as soon as possible. You should also keep a devotion to your Guardian Angel and St Michael. Another thing I’ve found helpful is to make use of any relics or sacramentals you have.
 
Prolly dry heat causing dry tickle.
Drink some water and see if that helps.
Water doesn’t break the fast
 
I agree with those suggesting that you might want to rule out medical issues. I deal with an illness that causes my throat to swell and close, and I find it helps to constantly keep things lubricated, especially if I’m exercising my voice. We’re usually of the notion that it’s improper to have water or a lozenge during liturgies, but if they’re needed, they’re needed.
 
Seek a counselor and have a medical check up. Also, have a glass of water with you when you pray.
 
This might be too prosaic, but is it possible there’s mold / some allergen at your church? When my kids were younger they had almost constantly runny noses when at Mass. I think the carpet in church was just moldy or something.
 
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If you’re praying in a whisper or low voice you may find that it will trigger a dry throat (which can sometimes lead to a choking feeling) and coughing. Take water.
 
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