Joseph R. Anticaglia MD
Advisory Board Member
Some home remedies have proven to be less costly and work better than medications for that nagging cough. A cough that lingers is an annoyance to you and can be to those around you — “Why doesn’t he do something about that cough?”
Below are ten things you can do to soothe that bothersome cough. Be forewarned, some of these suggestions are anecdotal with no scientific basis, so choose the ones that may be helpful.
- Honey
- Steam inhalation
- Drink lots of fluids
- Over-the-counter medications — OTC Yes or no?
- Antihistamine
- Suck on sugar free candy, cough drops
- Remove household air pollution
- Avoid dairy products, high sugar foods and mucus-producing foods
- Use cough suppressants to get a good night’s sleep
- When in doubt, call your physician.
Honey should not be given to children under twelve months of age because it can cause infantile botulism. In children one year and older, studies indicate honey is preferred to over-the-counter cough suppressants. It has been shown to reduce the frequency of nighttime coughing.
Steam inhalation, whether it’s from a steamy bathroom or humidifier, can break up thickened mucus plugs, soothe irritated membranes and have a calming effect on the cough. A cool air humidifier is a useful household item for cough.
Drink lots of fluids. Water, hot tea, or Grandma’s chicken soup help thin the mucus and prevent dehydration.
In 2008, the FDA strongly recommended that OTC cough and cold medications not be used for children under the age four because they “have not been shown to be safe or effective.” They are safe to use after the age of six.
Expectorant medications are used to thin the mucus, and cough suppressants are particularly useful in those complaining of a dry cough. Antihistamines diminish throat irritation by lessoning runny nose and post nasal drip, but some complain about its drying and sleepy side effects.
To minimize household air pollution, remove air-borne irritants. If you’re a smoker, stop — or at the very least — do not smoke inside the house or apartment. Clean or replace the heating — A/C filters. Perfumes, scented sprays and soaps can also predispose to postnasal drip and coughing.
Narcotic based cough suppressants have been prescribed for adults and older children. When possible, minimize its use during the daytime so you can take the cough medication at night to get a good night’s sleep.
Unquestionably, you have your own favorite home remedy or natural cure for your cough. However, when the cough persists for a while, it may be a red flag of something more serious. When in doubt, call your physician.
References
FDA Releases Recommendations Regarding Use of Over-the-Counter Cough and Cold Products 2008
This article is intended solely as a learning experience. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options.