Best Medicine For A Cough That Won't Go Away
A cough is a reflex action that helps to clear your airways of mucus and irritants such as smoke, dust or allergens. It is usually a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a cold or flu, allergies, asthma, or pneumonia. Coughs can be acute, lasting for a few days or weeks, or chronic, lasting for more than eight weeks.
A chronic cough can be very frustrating and can affect your quality of life. It can disrupt your sleep, cause fatigue, and make it difficult to talk, work, or exercise. If you have a cough that won't go away, it's important to see your doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions. However, there are also some over-the-counter and natural remedies that can help to relieve your symptoms and speed up your recovery.
Over-the-counter cough medicines
Over-the-counter cough medicines can help to suppress your cough and make it easier to breathe. They are available in different forms, such as syrups, tablets, capsules, and lozenges, and contain different active ingredients, such as dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, or codeine.
Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by blocking the cough reflex in your brain. It is usually found in cough syrups and capsules, and is suitable for dry coughs that don't produce mucus.
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by thinning and loosening the mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough up. It is usually found in cough syrups and tablets, and is suitable for wet coughs that produce mucus.
Codeine is a narcotic cough suppressant that works by reducing the sensitivity of your cough reflex. It is usually found in prescription cough medicines, and is suitable for severe coughs that interfere with your sleep or daily activities. However, it can also cause side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, and addiction, and should be used with caution.
Natural remedies
In addition to over-the-counter medicines, there are also some natural remedies that can help to soothe your throat and reduce your cough. These remedies are often gentler on your body and have fewer side effects than medicines.
Honey is a natural cough suppressant that can help to relieve your throat irritation and reduce your cough. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can also help to fight off infections and boost your immune system. You can take honey alone or mix it with warm water, lemon, or ginger for added benefits.
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and expectorant that can help to reduce your cough and break up the mucus in your airways. You can take ginger tea or add fresh or powdered ginger to your meals or snacks.
Steam inhalation is a natural way to loosen the mucus in your airways and relieve your cough. You can inhale steam from a hot shower, a bowl of hot water, or a steam inhaler. You can also add essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender for added benefits.
Lifestyle changes
In addition to medicines and remedies, there are also some lifestyle changes that can help to prevent or reduce your cough. These changes can also improve your overall health and well-being.
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, as they can irritate your airways and worsen your cough.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, or soup, to help to thin and loosen the mucus in your airways and prevent dehydration.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate your body and worsen your cough.
Get enough rest and sleep, as they can help to boost your immune system and speed up your recovery.
Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, as it can provide your body with the nutrients and energy it needs to fight off infections and heal.
Conclusion
If you have a cough that won't go away, it's important to see your doctor to rule out any serious underlying conditions. However, there are also some over-the-counter and natural remedies that can help to relieve your symptoms and speed up your recovery. Over-the-counter cough medicines can help to suppress your cough and make it easier to breathe. Natural remedies such as honey, ginger, and steam inhalation can help to soothe your throat and reduce your cough. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting enough rest and sleep can also prevent or reduce your cough and improve your overall health and well-being.