10 Tips for Calming Your Cough

Sun-Jul-2023
7

Here are 10 tips for calming your cough:

  1. Drink plenty of fluids. This will help to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. Water, clear broths, and herbal teas are all good choices.
  2. Use a humidifier. Humid air can help to soothe a sore throat and loosen mucus. You can use a cool-mist humidifier or simply take a hot shower or bath.
  3. Gargle with salt water. This can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in the throat. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds several times a day.
  4. Suck on hard candy or lozenges. This can help to keep the throat moist and reduce the urge to cough. Avoid hard candy that is sugary or contains menthol, as these can irritate the throat.
  5. Elevate your head when you sleep. This can help to reduce fluid retention in the throat and airways. Place an extra pillow or two under your head when you go to bed.
  6. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Smoking can irritate the airways and make a cough worse. Secondhand smoke can also trigger coughing.
  7. Get enough rest. When your body is well-rested, it is better able to fight off infection and reduce inflammation. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
  8. Use over-the-counter cough medication. Over-the-counter cough medications can help to thin mucus and suppress the cough reflex. However, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the directions.
  9. See a doctor if your cough is severe or persistent. If your cough lasts for more than two weeks, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Here are some additional tips that may help to calm your cough:

  • Try honey. Honey has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity and duration of coughs. You can take honey on its own or add it to tea or water.
  • Use essential oils. Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, and thyme oil, have been shown to be effective in relieving cough symptoms. You can diffuse essential oils in the air or add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
  • Take a warm shower or bath. The steam from a hot shower or bath can help to loosen mucus and soothe a sore throat.

If you have any questions or concerns about calming your cough, talk to your doctor.