15 Ways To Get Rid Of A Cough And Soothe Your Throat Fast – We’ve all experienced the discomfort of a nagging cough and scratchy throat. These symptoms can be quite bothersome and affect our daily lives. While a cough can arise due to various reasons such as allergies, infections, or cold weather, finding relief is essential for our well-being. However, it’s crucial to remember that this article provides general advice, and consulting a healthcare professional is always the best approach for persistent or severe symptoms.
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15 Ways To Get Rid Of A Cough And Soothe Your Throat Fast | According To Doctors
Here are 15 ways to get rid of a cough and soothe your throat fast, according to doctors:
Stay Hydrated
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to ease throat irritation and get rid of a cough is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to soothe the throat and keeps the mucous membranes moist, reducing the urge to cough. Opt for warm beverages like herbal teas, clear broths, or simply warm water with a dash of honey and lemon for added benefits.
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is an age-old remedy to relieve congestion and ease a cough. Inhaling warm, moist air helps to loosen mucus and soothe the irritated throat. To do this, heat water in a bowl, place a towel over your head, and lean over the bowl to inhale the steam. Be cautious with the hot water to avoid burns.
Honey and Lemon
Honey and lemon are a powerful duo when it comes to treating a cough. Honey has natural antibacterial properties that can help fight infections, while lemon provides vitamin C to boost the immune system. Mixing a teaspoon of honey with freshly squeezed lemon juice in warm water creates a soothing and effective cough remedy.
Gargling with Salt Water
When dealing with a sore throat and persistent cough, gargling with salt water can work wonders. The salt helps to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the throat, providing relief. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Use of Herbal Teas
Herbal teas have long been cherished for their healing properties. Some herbs like chamomile, ginger, and peppermint have soothing effects on the throat and can alleviate cough symptoms. Prepare these teas using fresh or dried herbs and enjoy the benefits of nature’s healing touch.
Over-the-Counter Medications
For mild coughs, over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants can provide relief. Cough suppressants help reduce the urge to cough, while expectorants help in loosening mucus to facilitate easier coughing. However, always read the labels and follow the recommended dosage.
Proper Rest and Sleep
When your body is fighting off a cough, it needs ample rest to recover. Ensure you get enough sleep and avoid straining your voice. A well-rested body can better combat infections and promote faster healing.
Avoiding Irritants
Certain environmental irritants, such as smoke, dust, and strong odors, can aggravate a cough and worsen throat irritation. If possible, avoid exposure to such irritants, especially during a coughing bout.
Humidifier Usage
Dry air can exacerbate throat irritation and coughing. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe and soothing the throat. However, make sure to keep the humidifier clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Cough Drops and Lozenges
Cough drops and lozenges can provide temporary relief by numbing the throat and reducing the urge to cough. Look for products containing ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus, known for their soothing properties.
Warm Compress on Chest
For a cough accompanied by chest congestion, applying a warm compress can help ease discomfort. The warmth aids in loosening mucus and reducing chest tightness. Ensure the compress is not too hot and apply it to the chest for a few minutes.
Elevate Your Head
Elevating your head while sleeping can prevent postnasal drip, reducing nighttime coughing. Use an extra pillow to keep your head slightly elevated, aiding in easier breathing and a more restful night.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises can be beneficial in calming cough reflexes and reducing throat irritation. Practice deep breathing techniques, inhaling slowly through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. This helps relax the airways and promotes a sense of calm.
Consider Heartburn Meds
Pepcid, Prilosec, or other antacids can relieve acid reflux and nix any associated coughs, notes Dr. Hanak.
If you find it to be a chronic issue, making certain dietary changes may help, such as avoiding citrus, chocolate, high-fat foods, onions, and tomato-based food products, and incorporating high-fiber foods into your diet, like brown rice, celery, lettuce, melon, oatmeal, and root vegetables (think: potatoes).
You may also want to drink lots of water and keep your portions small at meals if your coughs are due to reflux, says Dr. Hanak.
Enjoy A Hot Bath Or Shower
Besides helping you de-stress after a long day, soaking in a hot bath can ease common cold symptoms like congestion, coughing, and sinus pressure, says Dr. Peterson. (A shower works just as well, FYI.) “The steam opens up the airways really well and it soothes,” she says.
Alternatively, you could try a humidifier, which adds moisture to the air around you and can work in the same way.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most coughs are harmless and resolve on their own, some may indicate an underlying health issue. If you experience coughing accompanied by high fever, severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or prolonged symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
FAQs about coughs:
What causes a cough?
There are many different things that can cause a cough, including:
- Colds and the flu. These are the most common causes of coughs.
- Bronchitis. This is an inflammation of the airways that can cause a cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
- Pneumonia. This is an infection of the lungs that can also cause a cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
- Asthma. This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the airways and can lead to coughing.
- GERD. This is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, which can cause a cough.
- Postnasal drip. This is a condition in which mucus from the nose drips down the back of the throat, which can cause a cough.
- Environmental irritants. These can include dust, smoke, and fumes, which can irritate the airways and cause a cough.
How long does a cough last?
The duration of a cough can vary depending on the underlying cause. For example, a cough caused by a cold or the flu typically lasts for 7-10 days. A cough caused by bronchitis can last for 2-3 weeks. And a cough caused by pneumonia can last for 4-6 weeks.
How can I get rid of a cough?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to get rid of a cough will vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some general tips that may help include:
- Get plenty of rest. This will help your body to heal and fight off the infection that is causing your cough.
- Drink plenty of fluids. This will help to keep you hydrated and loosen mucus.
- Take over-the-counter cough medications. These can help to suppress a cough or loosen mucus.
- Use a humidifier. This can help to add moisture to the air, which can help to loosen mucus and soothe a sore throat.
- Gargle with salt water. This can help to kill bacteria and soothe a sore throat.
- Try natural remedies. There are many natural remedies that may help to relieve a cough, such as honey, ginger, and chamomile tea.
If your cough is severe or doesn’t improve after a few days, you should see a doctor. They can help to determine the cause of your cough and recommend the best treatment.
What should I avoid if I have a cough?
There are a few things that you should avoid if you have a cough, including:
- Smoking. Smoking can irritate the airways and make your cough worse.
- Secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can also irritate the airways and make your cough worse.
- Alcohol. Alcohol can dry out the airways and make your cough worse.
- Decongestants. Decongestants can dry out the airways and make your cough worse.
- Caffeine. Caffeine can irritate the airways and make your cough worse.
When should I see a doctor about my cough?
If you have a cough that is severe or doesn’t improve after a few days, you should see a doctor. They can help to determine the cause of your cough and recommend the best treatment. You should also see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms along with your cough:
- Fever.
- Chest pain.
- Shortness of breath.
- Wheezing.
- Bloody sputum.
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