Introduction
Coughs are a common experience that can have many underlying reasons including allergies, infections, and irritants. Coughing usually helps to clear the airways by expelling foreign objects and secretions, but coughing can become a source of discomfort when incessant. Fortunately, there are various natural remedies, lifestyle changes, medication recommendations, exercise, and support for chronic cough that can help you soothe a cough and alleviate symptoms.
Natural remedies for soothing a cough
Natural remedies can help alleviate cough symptoms and can be administered at home without consulting a professional. These remedies have been used for generations to soothe coughs and can work exceptionally well. While they may not get rid of the cough completely, they can help you feel more comfortable as your body fights off the underlying cause.
Hot Water
When you inhale steam, it can loosen mucus in the chest and throat and make coughing more comfortable. You can inhale steam from hot water by using a large bowl and placing a towel over your head to trap the steam from the hot bowl. Be cautious not to scald yourself.
Honey
Honey has antibacterial and antiviral properties and can be very helpful in alleviating cough symptoms. Take half to one tablespoon of honey before going to bed for the night, or mix it with hot water to make a soothing cough syrup.
Tea
Herbal tea can help soothe cough symptoms, including peppermint tea, thyme tea, and chamomile tea. Add honey and lemon to the tea to make it more effective.
Saltwater Gargle
A saltwater gargle is an effective remedy that can help soothe a cough by reducing inflammation in the throat. Add a half teaspoon table salt to a cup of warm water and gargle drop at a time for as long as you can.
Turmeric, Ginger, and Garlic
Turmeric, ginger, and garlic are ingredients that people have been using for centuries to treat and prevent illnesses. You can use these ingredients for cough relief and add them to your meals.
When using natural remedies, be cautious of possible allergies and side effects, as well as dosage instructions for children and pregnant women.
Lifestyle changes to alleviate coughing
Making some changes to your daily routine can help reduce coughing, as well as improve your overall health.
Getting More Rest
When you’re sleeping, the body repairs and heals itself more efficiently, so getting enough sleep can help you recover faster from illnesses and prevent coughing.
Drinking more water
You should always drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. However, it can be particularly helpful when you’re coughing as it can help to thin and loosen mucus making coughing easier.
Avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke, dust, and pollution
Avoiding irritants that can cause or exacerbate cough symptoms is advisable. Stay indoors on days when the air quality is poor, and ensure that your home is well ventilated. Avoid cigarette smoke and other smoke particles that can irritate the throat and lungs.
Using a humidifier
A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to reduce cough symptoms by loosening mucus in the throat and nose.
When making these lifestyle changes, be cautious about possible allergies and side effects. Though only inconvenience may occur, in severe cases, it is better to consult a healthcare professional.
Medication recommendations for cough relief
There are various medications that can help alleviate cough symptoms. Some of the medications can be purchased over-the-counter and others are available through prescription.
Expectorants
An expectorant is a medication that can help alleviate the cough and remove mucus from the lungs. Examples of expectorants include Guaifenesin (Mucinex) and Bromhexine.
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants, also known as antitussives, help to reduce coughing by reducing the brain’s reflex to cough. These include codeine ( when obtained through prescription) and dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM and Vicks 44), which are found over the counter.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can help alleviate coughs resulting from allergies. Examples of antihistamines include Loratadine (Claritin) and Diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
Decongestants
Decongestants can help to alleviate coughs caused by a cold or flu. They work by shrinking the swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages and can be administered through oral dosage or nasal sprays or drops. Examples include Pseudoephedrine, and Phenylephrine.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medications that treat bacterial infections. They are not helpful in treating coughing resulting from allergies or viruses. Consulting a healthcare provider is required to ascertain whether your cough requires an antibiotic treatment or not.
Be cautious about possible allergies and side effects, read the warning labels, and check with your healthcare provider for any drug interactions.
Exercise and coughing
Exercise can help in easing cough symptoms by improving lung function, strengthening the muscles, and enhancing overall health. Various types of exercise can be helpful in managing cough symptoms.
Breathing exercises
Breathing exercises can help to clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier for you to cough and breathe effectively.
Yoga
Yoga is a form of exercise that improves breathing, strengthens muscles, and enhances overall wellbeing. It can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of coughing and other respiratory conditions.
Cardiovascular exercise
Cardiovascular exercise like running, cycling, swimming, and dancing can improve lung function, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the heart and lungs.
Resistance training
Resistance training helps in strengthening muscles and improving posture, thereby reducing stress on the lungs and making breathing easier.
When exercising with a cough, don’t push yourself too hard and be cautious of the risk of dehydration. Furthermore, consult your healthcare provider for any restrictions that may apply.
Getting support for chronic cough
Chronic cough is a condition where cough lasts more than eight weeks. If you notice symptoms of such, including shortness of breath or chest pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Finding the Right healthcare provider
Find a healthcare provider with experience in treating chronic cough. A pulmonary specialist can provide the diagnosis and treatment required for more complex cough conditions.
Treatments for chronic coughs
Several treatments can help alleviate chronic coughs, including bronchodilators, steroids, antibiotics, and other medications that a healthcare provider may recommend.
When seeking professional help for chronic cough, be cautious about allergies, side effects, and drug interactions. Follow instructions and dosages prescribed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a cough can be an uncomfortable experience, but various remedies, lifestyle changes, exercise, and support for chronic cough can help alleviate the symptoms. Be cautious about allergies, side effects, drug interactions, and restrictions before you start any treatment. Finding the right solution to soothe your cough is the most important thing.
