A cough serves as a beneficial mechanism, aiding in clearing the airways when irritated, as explained by the Mayo Clinic. Nonetheless, it can disrupt sleep and cause discomfort, seeming persistent at times.
According to research, the majority of coughs resolve without intervention. Stephen Russell, MD, an expert in upper respiratory infections at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, notes that various natural and home remedies for cough offer proven benefits.
Addressing the underlying cause, such as avoiding smoke and allergens like mold or pet dander, can alleviate some coughs. If these measures prove ineffective, Dr. Russell suggests trying his preferred home remedies for cough, many of which are likely already available in one’s kitchen or medicine cabinet.
natural cough remedies
Numerous natural remedies are employed to alleviate a persistent cough, although their efficacy can vary and may lack substantial evidence of effectiveness.
- Honey: Research indicates that honey may alleviate cough symptoms, outperforming standard care and potentially reducing the need for antibiotics.
- Ginger: With anti-inflammatory properties, ginger might relieve dry or asthmatic coughs. While limited studies exist, traditional medicine recognizes ginger’s role in managing coughs.
- Hot Fluids: Although current research is scant, warm liquids could alleviate cough, runny nose, and sneezing. Hot beverages may offer additional relief from sore throat, chills, and fatigue.
- Steam: Steam inhalation may ease wet coughs by loosening mucus. This method involves exposure to steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water with added herbs or essential oils.
- Marshmallow Root: Due to its mucilage content, marshmallow root soothes cough-induced irritation. Studies suggest its efficacy in relieving coughs caused by colds and respiratory infections.
- Saltwater Gargle: While it may alleviate sore throat and cold symptoms, saltwater gargling might not reduce viral load. Individuals should be cautious, especially those with high blood pressure.
- Bromelain: Derived from pineapples, bromelain exhibits anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, potentially aiding in mucus reduction and cough suppression.
- Thyme: Thyme preparations are noted for their efficacy in alleviating cough symptoms, although further studies are needed to establish their overall effectiveness.
- Dietary Changes for Acid Reflux: Managing acid reflux triggers can reduce associated coughing. Common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, citrus foods, and spicy dishes.
- Slippery Elm: Rich in mucilage, slippery elm bark helps soothe sore throats and coughs, similar to marshmallow root.
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC): NAC supplementation may reduce the frequency and severity of wet coughs by reducing airway mucus, particularly in chronic bronchitis.
- Probiotics: While not directly addressing coughs, probiotics may bolster the immune system, potentially reducing cough-inducing infections. Foods like miso soup, yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics, but supplements are also available.
Home Treatments
Stay hydrated by consuming ample fluids or utilizing a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer to alleviate throat irritation and loosen mucus. Before bedtime, consider taking a small amount of honey, which research suggests can alleviate coughing. However, refrain from giving honey to children under 12 months. Explore over-the-counter remedies containing soothing ingredients like aloe or menthol.
For relief, consider natural over-the-counter products containing minimal doses of aspirin. When applied to inflamed tissues resulting from upper respiratory infections, aspirin can help alleviate sore throat symptoms.
Calm a ‘Wet’ Cough
If you’re experiencing difficulty expelling thick mucus, consider medications labeled as “expectorants,” which help loosen mucus to facilitate its removal. For individuals experiencing post-nasal drip with excessive mucous secretion, medications like Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), which possess drying properties, may be more effective.
If you have a cough accompanied by fever or shortness of breath, it’s important to contact your doctor promptly. Additionally, consult with your healthcare provider before using cough medicine, especially if you have serious conditions such as emphysema, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or asthma. Refrain from administering cough and cold medicine to children under 4 years old.
Calm a ‘Dry’ Cough
A cough may arise due to a cold, the flu, or exposure to irritants like dust or smoke. Medications labeled as “suppressants” can help alleviate the urge to cough and improve sleep quality. Additionally, cough drops or hard candy can effectively alleviate the tickle sensation in the throat. However, it’s important to avoid giving cough drops to children younger than 4 years old.
Read Also: Mucinex: Dosing, Indications, Interactions, Adverse Effect
Cough Medicine and Children
Avoid administering this type of medicine to children under 4 years old due to potential serious side effects. Consult your doctor before giving any of these products to children aged 4 to 6. However, they are generally considered safe after the age of 6. For children aged 1 and older, consider offering 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of honey to help alleviate their cough.
Will Antibiotics Stop a Cough?
Generally, no. This is because most coughs stem from viral infections such as colds or the flu, which typically improve within a week. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. If your cough persists beyond a week, it’s advisable to consult your doctor to rule out a bacterial illness such as sinus infection or pneumonia. In such cases, antibiotics may be necessary.
Coughs From Allergies and Asthma
Allergies can manifest through sneezing, coughing, or both. Antihistamine medication can be effective in alleviating allergy symptoms. Some newer antihistamines available at drugstores do not induce drowsiness. If you experience wheezing, characterized by a whistling sound while breathing, it could be indicative of asthma. It is advisable to consult your doctor if you experience wheezing or suspect asthma.
Smoker’s Hack
If you smoke, it’s common to experience coughing, particularly in the morning. However, persistent coughing could indicate a more serious issue. Smoking can irritate your airways, leading to inflammation that may develop into bronchitis. Additionally, it could be a warning sign of cancer. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if you cough up blood or if a new cough persists beyond one month. Consulting your doctor can help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
What Else Causes Coughs?
If your cough persists for more than 8 weeks, several factors could be responsible. Prolonged coughs may stem from acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Coughs can also result from the use of ACE inhibitors, a type of blood pressure medication. Furthermore, coughing can be a symptom of whooping cough or even heart failure. Seeking medical attention is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
When to Call the Doctor
If you have a persistent cough, it’s important to contact your doctor if:
- Your cough is deep and accompanied by significant mucus production.
- The mucus you cough up is bloody.
- You experience wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
- You have a fever that persists for more than 3 days.
- Your child experiences chills or frequent nighttime coughing.
- Your cough persists for more than 7 days without improvement.
These symptoms could indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention.
Conclusion
Understanding the nature of coughs and recognizing when they may signal a more serious underlying condition is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. While many coughs are a result of common viral infections and resolve on their own, persistent or severe coughing should prompt further evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Knowing the warning signs, such as the presence of blood in mucus, difficulty breathing, prolonged fever, or persistent cough in children, empowers individuals to seek timely medical care when needed. By prioritizing early detection and intervention, individuals can effectively manage cough-related symptoms and address potential underlying health issues, ultimately promoting better health outcomes and quality of life.