That nasty cough just won’t quit? We’ve all been there. Whether it’s keeping you up at night or making you self-conscious in public, a lingering cough is never fun. But knowing how to get rid of a bad cough can make all the difference. Luckily, there are a number of effective strategies that you can try, ranging from soothing home remedies to more targeted medications. This article will walk you through different approaches so you can finally get some relief.
Understanding the Culprit: What’s Causing Your Cough?
Before we dive into cough treatment, let’s quickly review some common cough triggers. This will help us choose the most effective strategies for how to get rid of a bad cough.
Upper Respiratory Infections
These are the usual suspects, with colds and the flu topping the list. Coughs from these viruses are typically accompanied by other telltale signs, such as a runny nose, sore throat, and sometimes a fever. If your cough is paired with symptoms of a cold or flu, NextCare Urgent Care can help determine whether your cough is viral or bacterial and suggest the appropriate treatment.
Allergies
If pollen, dust, or pet dander makes you sniffle and cough, you’re not alone. These allergens can irritate the airways and trigger persistent coughing. This could also lead to sinus infections if not taken care of. For allergy-related coughs, NextCare Urgent Care offers quick evaluations and recommendations on over-the-counter or prescription medications that can bring relief.
Postnasal Drip
Ever feel that annoying tickle at the back of your throat? That’s often postnasal drip, where mucus drains from your sinuses into your throat, prompting those pesky coughs. This is very common in young children.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Believe it or not, even heartburn can cause a cough. When stomach acid creeps back up into your esophagus (GERD), it can irritate your airways, making you cough. Using an extra pillow at night can sometimes help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Asthma
Asthma involves chronic inflammation in the airways. This can lead to coughing fits, along with wheezing and shortness of breath.
Other Lung Conditions
A bad cough can be a symptom of bronchitis, pneumonia, or other more serious lung issues. These cases often require professional medical attention. You can always start by reaching out to your urgent care doctor.
Tried and True Home Remedies: Soothing the Cough Naturally
Many coughs are a natural response to illness and go away on their own, especially once you’re over a cold or other respiratory issue. If you’re searching for some relief while you recover, these home remedies are worth trying. They’re typically effective at calming down the cough reflex, although some have better scientific backing than others.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
Think of water as your secret weapon. It helps to thin mucus, making it easier to cough up. Doctors often recommend at least eight glasses of water daily.
Aiming for eight to twelve glasses a day may be helpful when trying to alleviate that phlegm and cough, especially when dealing with bronchitis. Water isn’t your only option. Consider sipping on hot water, herbal tea, or broth throughout the day for added relief and flavor.
Embrace the Sweet Power of Honey
Honey, especially those darker varieties like buckwheat honey, is more than just a sweet treat. A recent study found that it might be even better at relieving coughs from upper respiratory infections than many over-the-counter drugs. This sweet and soothing treat coats the throat and might ease irritation.
For most people, one or two teaspoons of honey, either directly or mixed with warm water or tea, can help calm those coughs before bed. But be careful. Doctors warn against giving honey to babies under 12 months old. Infant botulism is a rare but dangerous risk.
Gargle for Gentle Relief
A saltwater solution gargle is a time-tested home remedy. It’s simple and soothing. Dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water creates a simple yet effective way to loosen mucus, help reduce throat irritation, and possibly clear away bacteria.
Humidifiers: Your Breathing Buddy
Adding moisture to the air, particularly with a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer, can be a game-changer. Make sure you are properly cleaning your humidifier. Keeping the airways moist can prevent that constant tickle that makes you want to cough. These devices are especially helpful for nighttime coughs and for people prone to a dry cough.
Shower Steam: DIY Moisture
Short on time (or don’t have a humidifier)? A long, steamy shower can work wonders. That steam helps to loosen mucus and opens up your airways, making it easier to breathe and reduce coughing. You can also create your own personal “steam tent” by placing a bowl of steaming water on a table, draping a towel over your head, and breathing in the warm, moist air. This remedy may not be as effective for everyone, as some studies suggest that its benefits for common cold symptoms are minimal.
When You Need Extra Support: Turning to Medications
While those natural remedies are worth trying, there are times when your cough requires more than just soothing. When you’re battling an unrelenting bad cough, especially if it’s linked to postnasal drip, a cold, allergies, or another issue, over-the-counter medications can provide a helping hand. These can target the specific cough type for a more focused approach. It’s crucial, though, to follow the instructions on the label, and if you have questions or concerns about cough syrups or cough medicines, chat with your doctor or a pharmacist.
Expectorants: Making Mucus Move
Dealing with that thick, stubborn phlegm? An expectorant can be your new best friend. Look for those with guaifenesin. This powerful ingredient works to loosen the mucus, making it thinner and easier to cough up. It essentially turns that dry, hacking cough into a productive, mucus-clearing one. You’ll often find it in over-the-counter favorites like Mucinex and Robitussin. Just remember, avoid giving any type of cough medication to kids under 4, cautions the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Between ages 4 and 6, proceed with caution, and only after checking with the child’s doctor.
Cough Suppressants: Silencing the Reflex
Can’t seem to quiet that relentless cough, especially at night? A cough suppressant may be what you need. These contain dextromethorphan, which steps in to suppress your cough reflex. For that persistent nighttime hacking, especially if it’s a dry cough and disturbing sleep, you might also want to look into those formulated specifically for nighttime. These typically contain an antihistamine which will help you doze off, but can make you drowsy, so avoid taking during the day.
Additional Tips and When to Call the Doctor
Herbal Remedies
Beyond those household staples like honey, some plant-based options are worth trying. Marshmallow root, slippery elm, ginger, thyme, and bromelain (derived from pineapples) are often suggested for cough relief. Drinking herbal tea with these ingredients can sometimes help. You’ll find them in different forms, such as teas or supplements. If you decide to explore herbal options, chat with a healthcare professional or herbalist about dosage and potential interactions.
Lifestyle Considerations
Sometimes, small adjustments can make a big difference. Avoid smoking, secondhand smoke, and air pollution, all of which can irritate the airways and worsen coughs. If allergies are at play, manage them carefully. Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and allergy testing can help. When heartburn triggers that pesky cough, a doctor may prescribe acid blockers, but changing up what you eat can help, too. Skipping spicy, fatty, and acidic foods may lessen the irritation. Inhaling moist air can help alleviate a scratchy throat and coughing. This is where a humidifier comes in handy.
Red Flags: When to See the Doctor
Most coughs clear up on their own within a few weeks, particularly those from viruses. But sometimes a cough warrants a trip to the doctor. It’s smart to seek medical attention if the cough:
- Lasts for more than eight weeks (considered chronic)
- Is accompanied by bloody phlegm
- Comes with difficulty breathing
- Is paired with a fever over 101.5
- Involves wheezing
- Includes chest pain
- Leads to weight loss
When trying to decipher how to get rid of a bad cough, there is no single magical answer that works for every person and every cough. Experimenting with various home remedies can be effective at providing comfort until that pesky cough clears. If it’s relentless or causing serious concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Coughing is usually a temporary nuisance but can sometimes signal more serious issues. By understanding the potential causes, embracing simple home remedies, and knowing when to seek medical care, you can manage and even prevent chronic coughing.
If you’re struggling with a persistent cough, NextCare Urgent Care is ready to assist with fast, effective care to address your symptoms and provide relief. Visit one of our convenient locations today and start breathing easier.
Disclaimer: Treatment options are tailored to the patient’s current condition and the examples are to be used as possible treatment options. The actual treatment will be determined after an assessment performed by a medical professional. Additionally, procedures are recommended only after a comprehensive evaluation and a thoughtful determination of the most appropriate treatment options.