To understand how to relieve a cough, we must first understand what a cough is and what causes it. Coughing is a natural mechanism of the body that acts as a defense to keep the airways clear.
When a cough is prolonged or severe, it can become bothersome and affect a person’s quality of life, which is why it’s common for individuals to seek remedies to relieve a cough.
Coughing is an involuntary reflex that occurs when something irritates the airways, and this action aims to protect the lungs by eliminating the substance or foreign object interfering with breathing.
There are various types of cough, such as acute cough, which lasts less than three weeks and is related to respiratory infections; subacute cough, which persists for three to eight weeks and usually follows a viral infection; and chronic cough, which lasts more than eight weeks and may indicate underlying conditions such as asthma or gastroesophageal reflux.
How to Soothe a Cough
To soothe a cough, it’s important to keep the airways moist, either with the help of a humidifier or by inhaling steam. This helps relieve irritation and loosen secretions.
Proper hydration is also essential, achieved by drinking warm liquids such as tea or soups, which can soothe the throat and aid in mucus elimination.
It is also crucial to avoid irritants such as tobacco smoke, dust, or strong chemical products.
Medications may be prescribed depending on the cause of the cough and the severity of the symptoms. These will vary depending on whether the cough is dry, productive (with phlegm), acute, chronic, or has other specific characteristics.
Home Remedies for a Cough
There are various home remedies for a cough. These are not considered a cure, but they can help relieve symptoms and discomfort.
- Honey: has antimicrobial properties and the ability to soothe the throat.
- Ginger: has anti-inflammatory properties that help relax the membranes of the airways and reduce coughing.
- Herbal tea: infusions of plants such as eucalyptus, thyme, or mint can help clear the airways and calm the cough.
- Saltwater gargles: relieve sore throat and reduce inflammation.
- Turmeric: curcumin is a compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Garlic: is a powerful natural antimicrobial.
How to Relieve a Chronic Cough
Although home remedies can help reduce discomfort, when it comes to a chronic cough, it’s essential to identify and treat the underlying cause.
For example, if the cough is caused by asthma, bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are usually part of the treatment.
For cases of gastroesophageal reflux, lifestyle and dietary changes are recommended, as well as the use of antacids and acid-reducing medications.
If the cough is caused by allergies, antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids are common options to reduce airway inflammation.
In cases of chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD, respiratory physiotherapy exercises can improve lung capacity. Some patients may also require the use of respiratory assistance devices.
In situations where chronic cough is related to persistent infections, antibiotics may be necessary. Or, if the cough is due to an autoimmune disease such as sarcoidosis, immunosuppressants may be used to control inflammation.
It is always important to seek medical help if the cough lasts more than eight weeks, is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as blood in the sputum, chest pain, or weight loss, or if it significantly interferes with daily activities and sleep.
To properly identify how to get rid of a cough, it is necessary to seek specialized medical care to determine the underlying cause of the condition.
At the Saludora Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes
MedlinePlus, Cigna, MSD Manuals
