Simple reliefs for cough Coughing is what you do when something bugs your throat, whether it’s dust or postnasal drip. Coughing also helps clear your lungs and windpipe. Many coughs, like those from cold and flu, will go away on their own. If yours comes from a more serious medical condition, you need to treat the cause. Whatever the reason, if coughing’s driving you crazy, there are ways to feel better. Treating a cough at home: Drink plenty of fluids or use a cool-mist humidifier or vapouriser to soothe an irritated throat and loosen mucus. Prop your head up on extra pillows at night and have a little honey before bed. Studies show honey can help ease a cough. Don’t give honey to children under 12 months. Calming a “wet” cough: If you’re coughing up mucus, look for a cough medicine that says “expectorant.” That loosens mucus to help you cough it up. If you’re coughing up a lot of mucus, check with your doctor to see what the best cough medicine is for you. Also, talk to your doctor before using cough medicine for serious conditions like emphysema, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or asthma. Don’t give cough and cold medicine to children under four. Calming a “dry” cough: You may get a dry cough with a cold or the flu or if you breathe in something irritating like dust or smoke. A cough “suppressant” helps stop your urge to cough. Plus, it can help you sleep better. Cough drops – or even hard candy – can stop that tickle in the back of your throat. Don’t give cough drops to children younger than five. Cough medicine and children: Never give cough medicine to children younger than four because it can have serious side effects. For children four to six years old, ask your doctor before giving any cough and cold medicines. They are safe after age six. For children one and up, try 1/2 to one teaspoon of honey to help them cough up mucus. Source: webmd
Posted on: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 10:00:01 +0000
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