Best Medicine For A Cough That Won T Go Away
Dealing with a cough that just won't seem to go away can be frustrating and tiring. Not only can it disrupt your daily routine, but it can also keep you up at night, making it difficult to get the rest you need to recover. While most coughs are not serious, they can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition such as asthma or bronchitis. It is essential to treat your cough with the right medication to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.
Causes of a Cough That Won't Go Away
A cough is a reflex action that occurs when the body tries to expel irritants from the throat or airways. It can be caused by various factors such as viral infections, allergies, smoking, or environmental pollutants. However, a persistent cough that lasts for more than eight weeks could be a sign of an underlying condition such as asthma, bronchitis, postnasal drip, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is essential to identify the cause of your cough to determine the right medication for treatment.
Types of Medication for a Cough That Won't Go Away
There are different types of medications available for treating a persistent cough. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the underlying cause of the cough. Here are some of the most common types of medications for a cough that won't go away:
Antitussives
Antitussives are medications that suppress the cough reflex. They are often used to treat dry coughs that do not produce mucus. Antitussives work by blocking the cough reflex in the brain, reducing the urge to cough. Some common antitussive medications include codeine, dextromethorphan, and hydrocodone.
Expectorants
Expectorants are medications that help to thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up. They are often used to treat coughs that produce mucus. Expectorants work by increasing the production of fluids in the respiratory tract, making the mucus less sticky and easier to expel. Some common expectorant medications include guaifenesin and acetylcysteine.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are medications that reduce inflammation in the airways. They are often used to treat coughs that are caused by allergies or asthma. Corticosteroids work by reducing swelling and irritation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Some common corticosteroid medications include prednisone and fluticasone.
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators are medications that relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. They are often used to treat coughs that are caused by asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Bronchodilators work by opening up the airways, allowing more air to flow in and out of the lungs. Some common bronchodilator medications include albuterol and salmeterol.
When to See a Doctor
If you have a persistent cough that lasts for more than eight weeks, it is essential to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause of your cough. Additionally, if your cough is accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, or fever, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may perform tests such as a chest X-ray, lung function tests, or allergy tests to determine the cause of your cough and prescribe the appropriate medication.
Conclusion
A cough that won't go away can be a symptom of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. It is essential to identify the cause of your cough and treat it with the right medication to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. Antitussives, expectorants, corticosteroids, and bronchodilators are some of the most common types of medication for treating a persistent cough. If you have a persistent cough, seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive the appropriate treatment.