Cough can be cured by several home remedies such as by honey tea, salt and water gargle and by taking steam. A cough, is a involuntary or voluntary act that clears the throat and breathing passage of foreign particles, irritants, microbes, mucus, and fluids. It is a fast expulsion of air from the lungs. Coughing can be done voluntarily or as part of a reflex. However coughing can be a sign of a severe illness, sometimes it will cure up on its own without the need for medical attention. If someone coughs more than usual, it can be a sign of a illness. Most coughs are caused due to the infectious diseases, such as the common cold, however there are also non-infectious causes.
Types of Cough
When something disturbs throat or airway, nervous system sends a signal to brain. Brain reacts by telling the muscles in abdomen and chest to expel and contract a burst of air.
A cough is an essential protective reflex that helps protect body from irritants like:
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Smoke
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Allergens, such as mold, pollen and dust
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Mucus
Coughs can be explained by:
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Characteristic: How does cough feel or sound? wet, dry or hacking?
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Effects: Does cough lass less than 2 weeks, 6 weeks, or more than 8 weeks?
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Duration: Does your cough last less than 2 weeks, 6 weeks, or more than 8 weeks?
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Behavior or experience: When and why does the cough happen? Is it at night, after eating, or while exercising?
Dry Cough
A dry cough is a cough that doesn’t produce mucus. It may feel like you have a tickle in the back of throat stimulating cough reflex, giving hacking coughs.Dry coughs are sometimes hard to manage and may exist in long fits. Dry coughs occur because there’s irritation or inflammation in respiratory tract, but there’s no extra mucus to cough up.
Dry coughs are sometimes caused by upper respiratory infections such as flu or the cold.
In both adults and children, it’s general for dry coughs to exist for many weeks after a flu or the cold has passed. Other possible causes of dry cough include:
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Tonsillitis
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease
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Asthma
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Sinusitis
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Laryngitis
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Allergies
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Croup
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exposure to irritants such as air pollution, dust, or smoke
Wet Cough
A wet cough is a cough that generally develop mucus.A flu or the cold generally causes wet coughs. They can come on gradually or rapidly and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue
- Postnasal drip
- Runny nose
Wet coughs sound wet because our body is pushing mucus out of respiratory system which includes:
- Airways
- Nose
- Throat
- Lungs
If someone have a wet cough, they may feel like there’s something dripping or suck at the back of throat or in chest. Some of coughs will bring mucus into mouth.Wet coughs can be chronic last longer than 8 weeks or acute and last less than 4 weeks in children or 3 weeks in adults. Conditions that can cause a wet cough include:
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Asthma
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease including chronic bronchitis and emphysema
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Pneumonia
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acute bronchitis
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A cold or the flu
Croup Cough
Croup is a viral infection that generally affects children ages 5.Croup causes the upper airway to become swollen and disrupted. Young children already have contracted airways. When swelling further contract the airway, it becomes hard to breathe.
Croup causes a “barking” cough that sounds like a seal. Swelling in voice box also causes a cracked voice and strident breathing noises.
Croup can be scary for both parents and children. Children may:
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Breathe very fastly
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Make high-pitched noises during inhalation
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Struggle for breath
Paraoxysmal Cough
A paroxysmal cough is a cough with periodic attacks of uncontrollable, voilent coughing. A paroxysmal cough feels painful and exhausting. People try to get a breath and may vomit.
Pertussis is a bacterial infection that causes violent coughing fits. It is also known as whooping cough.
The lungs release all the air they have during the whooping cough attack, causing people to inhale hardly with a “whoop” sound.Babies have a greater risk of narrowing whooping cough and face more severe complications from it. For them, whooping cough may be life threatening.
Whooping cough often causes paroxysmal coughs. Other possible causes of a severe coughing fit include:
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COPD
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Asthma
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Choking
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Tuberculosis
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Pneumonia
Summary
There are four types of cough: wet, dry, paroxysmal and croup cough. Wet dry produces mucus. Dry cough does not produces mucus. Paroxysmal cough is a cough with periodic attacks and croup cough is a viral infection.
Causes of cough
A cough can be caused by various conditions, both permanent and temporarily.
Asthma
A general cause of coughing in young children is asthma. Commonly, asthmatic coughing involves wheezing making it easy to recognize.
Asthma patients should receive treatment using an inhaler. It’s possible for children to grow out of asthma as they get older.
Smoking
Smoking is a general cause of coughing. Smoking cause a chronic cough with a distinctive sound. It’s sometimes known as a smoker’s cough.
Bacteria and Virus
Respiratory track infection such flu or cold are the most general cause of a cough.Respiratory tract infections are generally caused by a viruses and bacteria. Infections caused by the flu may take a little longer to cure up and can often need antibiotics.
Medicines
Few medications will cause coughing, however this is commonly a rare side effect. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors generally used to cure heart conditions high blood pressure, can cause coughing.
Two of the more general ones are:
• Vasotec
• Zestril
The coughing stops when the medication is discontinued.
Clearing of Throat
Coughing is a common way of clearing your throat. When airways become closed with foreign particles or mucus such as dust or smoke a cough is a reflex reaction that attempts to clear the particles and make breathing easier.This type of coughing is generally infrequent, but coughing will enhance with exposure to irritants such as smoke.
Summary
Cough is caused by various condition. Some causes of cough are asthma, medicines, smoke and the clearing of throat.
Natural Remedies to treat cough
People use a range of natural remedies to treat a constant cough. Here, we look at 12 of these remedies in more detail.
1. Ginger
Ginger may comfort a asthmatic or dry cough, as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also comfort pain and nausea .
Studies recommend that some anti-inflammatory compounds in ginger can relax membranes in the airways, which could decrease coughing. The researchers studied the effects of ginger on animals and human cells, so more research is essential. In some cases, ginger tea can cause stomach upset.
Summary
Compound in ginger can relax membranes in the airways which could decrease coughing. Ginger may ease a dry or asthmatic cough.
2. Steam
A wet cough, is a cough which produces phlegm or mucus, may better with steam. Take a shower with warm water and allow the bathroom to fill with steam. Stay in the steam for a few minutes until symptoms remove. Drink a glass of water afterward to prevent dehydration.
Alternatively, Make a steam bowl. To do this, fill a big bowl with warm water. Add essential oils or herbs such as rosemary or eucalyptus which may also comfort decongestion. Place a towel over the head and lean over the bowl and . This traps the steam. Inhale the vapors for 6 minutes. If the steam feels warms on the skin, discontinue until the skin cools down.
Summary
Mucus or phlegm produce by the wet cough can be treated by the steam. Try to take a shower with warm water and allow the washroom to fill with steam. Take this steam for 6 minutes.
3. Salt and Water gargle
Remedy of salt and water gargle is very effective to treat wet cough and also help in getting rid of a sore throat. Salt water reduces mucus and phlegm in the back of the throat which can reduce the need to cough.
Dissolves a half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water . Before using it to gargle allow the mixture to cool gradually. Let the mixture sit at the back of the throat for a some moments before spitting it out. Gargle with salt water many times every day until the cough improves.
How to get rid of a sore throat
It is necessary to discuss here how to get rid of a sore throat?. Here is the list of how we can get rid of a sore throat:
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Viral infections do not need any medicated treatment unless it gets worse, leading to some other complications.
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People can use simple analgesics ( for example; aspirin and paracetamol) just to prevent symptoms.
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Gargles with saltwater or aspirin water are also a way to soothe the throat.
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Over the counter, numbing sprays or lozenges can be used
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But in the case of Strep throat (bacterial infection), it is normally treated with antibiotics. If the patient is not allergic to this class of antibiotics penicillin or Amoxicillin are the first-line treatment for strep throat with doses or strengths depending upon severity for three to seven days.
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If the patient is allergic to penicillin then other antibiotics (such as or other Macrolides) are considered as an alternative treatment.
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But it is always better not to use antibiotics on your own because they are associated with resistance and some serious side effects belonging to each class.
Home remedies to treat a sore throat with no complications
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Saltwater gargles (half or quarter teaspoon of salt in 250 ml water) three to four times a day are effective in soothing the aching throat.
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Honey mixed in water or tea is the best home remedy.
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Licorice root tea not only soothes the throat but also effective to gut and liver.
Summary
Salt and water gargle remedy is effective to treat wet cough which produces mucus. Avoid giving this remedy to younger children because they are unable to gargle properly and swallowing salt water can be dangerous for health.
4. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root is an herb that is use as a treatment for coughs. The herb can comfort irritation resulting from coughing due to its high mucilage content… Mucilage is a gluey substance that coats the throat.
Marshmallow root is also available as a bagged tea or dried herb. Add warm water to either and then drink it instantly or allow it to cool first. The longer the marshmallow root precipitous in the water, the more mucilage will be in the drink.
Summary
Marshmallow can be used for the treatment of cough. This herb can ease the irritation resulting from the stomach. There are also some side effects of coughing.
5. Thyme
Thyme has both medicinal and culinary uses and is a general remedy for a cough and digestive issues.Studies shows that a cough syrup consisting of ivy leaves and thyme ease coughing more effectively and more fastly than a placebo syrup in people with acute bronchitis.
To cure coughs using thyme, look for a cough syrup that includes this herb. Make thyme tea by adding 2 tsp of dried thyme to a cup of warm water. Steep for 10 minutes before drinking and straining.
Summary
Thyme is a general remedy for cough. Cough syrup consisting of thyme relieve coughing more effectively. Use those cough syrup that contains this herb.
6. Peppermint
Peppermint leaves are known for their curing properties. Menthol in peppermint ease the throat and acts as a decongestant, aiding to break down mucus. We can get benefit by inhaling peppermint vapors from a steam or by drinking peppermint tea. Add 3 or 4 drops of peppermint oil for every 150 milliliters of warm water to make a steam bath. Take a towel over your head, and take deep breaths directly above the water.
Summary
Peppermint leaves can be used to treat cough. Menthol in peppermint ease the throat and act as a decongestant. Cough can be cured by drinking peppermint tea.
7. Dietary Changes for acid reflux
Acid reflux is a general cause of a cough. Avoiding foods that can promote acid reflux is one of the best ways to manage this condition and decrease the cough that accompanies it.
Every person may have different reflux promoters that they required to avoid. People who are not sure of what causes their reflux can start by removing the most general promoters from their diet and monitoring their symptoms.
The foods and beverages that most commonly trigger acid reflux include:
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Caffeine
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Alcohol
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Citrus foods
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Chocolates
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Fatty and fried foods
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Onion and garlic
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Spicy foods
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Tomato-based product
Is spicy food good for you?
It is essential to discuss here Is spicy food good for you? Who does not love spicy food. Most people are fond of spices but have you ever thought what does spicy food do to your stomach? Well here are some facts that you are going to witness that may shock you. Although there may be some serious health benefits to eating spicy food, it may also mess up your system, especially your stomach. So, you might want to think twice if you have been over-indulging in hot and spicy foods.
Summary
Acid reflux can cause cough. Avoid foods that contain acid reflux. Foods that contain acid reflux are the chocolates, onions, garlic and tomato-based product.
8.Honey tea
Honey may cure coughs. It can also ease coughs more betterly than over-the-counter medicines that contain dextromethorphan. The studies found that honey provided the most significant ease from coughing, followed by a cough supplement dextromethorphan.
To use honey to cure the cough mix 2 teaspoons of honey with hot water or an herbal tea. Drink this mixture twice a day. Do not give honey to children under 1 year.
Summary
Honey can be used to cure coughs. Honey cure coughs more effectively than a cough supplement dextromethorphan.
9. Fluids
Staying hydrated is important for those with a cold or cough. Research shows that drinking liquids at room temperature can eliminate a cough, sneezing, and runny rose…
But, people with additional symptoms of a flu or cold may benefit from warming up their beverages. The same study indicates that warm beverages eliminate even more symptoms, including a chills, fatigue, and sore throats.
Hot beverages that may be easing include:
- Decaffeinated black tea
- Herbal teas
- Clear broths
- Warm fruit juices
- Warm water
Summary
By staying hydrated we can cure cold or cough. Drinking liquid at room temperatures can eliminate sneezing, cough and runny rose.
10. Bromelain
Pineapples gives enzymes bromelain . It is most abundant in the core of the fruit.Bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties which means that it can break down mucus and eliminate it from the body.
Many people drink pineapple juice daily to remove mucus in the throat and suppress coughing. But, there may not be enough bromelain in the juice to ease symptoms. Bromelain additives are available and may be more beneficial at easing a cough. But it is best to speak with a doctor before trying any new additives.
Summary
Bromelain enzymes comes from pineapple can be used to relieve cough. People use pineapple juice to remove the mucus in the throat.
11. Probiotics
Probiotics may upsurge the immune system by balancing the bacteria in the gut, they do not directly ease a cough.The immune system can help to fight off allergens or infections that may be causing the cough.
One kind of probiotic, called Lactobacillus , gives a modest benefit in curing the general cold, according to research. Additives containing Lactobacillus and other probiotics are available at drug stores and health stores.
Many foods are also naturally rich in probiotics, including:
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Natural yogurt
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Miso soup
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Sauerkraut
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Kimchi
Summary
Probiotics do not directly ease a cough. Lactobacillus gives a benefit in treating the common cold. Many foods naturally rich in probiotics.
12. Slippery elm
Native Americans used slippery elm bark to cure digestive issues and coughing. Slippery elm is identical to marshmallow root as it consist of a high level of mucilage, which helps to comfort a cough and sore throat.
Make slippery elm tea. In a cup of hot water add 1 tsp of the dried herb . Steep for at least 11 minutes before drinking. It is necessary to note that slippery elm can interfere with the absorption of medications.Slippery elm is available in capsule and powder form in health stores .
Summary
Slippery elm can be used to treat the cough. Slippery elm tea can be made by adding 1 tsp of the dried herb in a cup of hot water. It is available in capsule and powder form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs and symptoms of cough?
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Hoarseness
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Sour taste in mouth
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Heart burn
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Shortness of breadth
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Wheezing
What is the best medicine for cough?
The best medicine for the cough is honey. Honey can also ease coughs more effectively than over-counter medications dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan is a cough additive. Do not give to the children under 1 year
Why are coughs worst at night?
Coughing become sometimes worse at night because at night the person is lying flat in bed. Mucus can pool in the back of the throat and result in coughing. Sleeping with head lifted can reduce postnasal drip and symptoms of GERD.
How do I know if my cough is serious?
If the dry cough is accompanied by the following symptoms you should see a doctor:
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Prolonged fever
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Fatigue
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Appetite loss
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Shortness of breadth
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Choking
Which fruit is good for cough?
Honey and pineapple juice are good for treating the cough. Both of honey and pineapple will comfort throat and provide ease from comfort. Some people drink pineapple juice on daily basis to cure cough.
Conclusion
Cough can be cured by several home remedies such as by honey tea, salt and water gargle and by taking steam. A cough, is a involuntary or voluntary act that clears the throat and breathing passage of foreign particles, irritants, microbes, mucus, and fluids. A dry cough is a cough that doesn’t produce mucus. It may feel like you have a tickle in the back of throat stimulating cough reflex, giving hacking coughs. A wet cough is a cough that generally develop mucus. A flu or the cold generally causes wet coughs. Ginger may comfort a asthmatic or dry cough, as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also comfort pain and nausea. Remedy of salt and water gargle is very effective to treat wet cough. Marshmallow root is an herb that is use as a treatment for coughs. Acid reflux can cause cough. Avoid foods that contain acid reflux. Foods that contain acid reflux are the chocolates, onions, garlic and tomato-based product.
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