Medicine For Cough That Won't Go Away
Cough is a common respiratory symptom that is caused by a variety of respiratory infections, allergies, and other medical conditions. It is usually a protective reflex that helps to clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and other foreign substances. However, sometimes a cough can persist for weeks or even months, causing discomfort, fatigue, and other complications. In this article, we will discuss some of the best medicines for a cough that won't go away.
Causes of Cough
A cough can be caused by various factors such as:
- Respiratory infections such as cold, flu, pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis.
- Allergies such as hay fever, asthma, and allergic rhinitis.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Postnasal drip.
- Lung cancer.
Treatment Options for Cough
The treatment options for a cough depend on the underlying cause. In many cases, a cough can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medicines such as cough suppressants, expectorants, and antihistamines. However, if the cough is caused by a more serious medical condition, such as COPD or lung cancer, more aggressive treatment may be necessary.
Medicines for Cough That Won't Go Away
If you have a cough that won't go away, you may need a stronger medication that can help to relieve your symptoms. Some of the best medicines for a cough that won't go away include:
- Codeine: Codeine is a narcotic pain reliever that can help to suppress a cough. It is available only by prescription and should be used with caution as it can be addictive.
- Dextromethorphan: Dextromethorphan is a non-narcotic cough suppressant that is available in many OTC cough medicines. It works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain.
- Guaifenesin: Guaifenesin is an expectorant that can help to loosen and thin mucus in the airways. It is available in many OTC cough medicines.
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines can help to relieve a cough caused by allergies. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical that is released by the immune system in response to allergens.
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation in the airways, which can help to relieve a cough caused by asthma or COPD.
Home Remedies for Cough
In addition to medicines, there are many home remedies that can help to relieve a cough. Some of the best home remedies for a cough include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids such as water, tea, and soup to help thin mucus and keep the airways moist.
- Using a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air.
- Gargling with salt water to help soothe a sore throat.
- Sucking on lozenges or hard candy to help relieve throat irritation.
- Avoiding irritants such as smoke, dust, and strong odors that can aggravate a cough.
- Getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities that can make a cough worse.
Conclusion
A cough that won't go away can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but there are many medicines and home remedies that can help to relieve your symptoms. If your cough persists for more than a few weeks, be sure to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may require more aggressive treatment.