Coughing is a common symptom of colds and flu, especially in the winter season. It can be annoying and uncomfortable, but there are some natural ways to ease it. In this blog post, we will explore some home remedies for cough that you can try at home.
Why do we cough?
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and infections. It can also be a sign of an underlying condition, such as asthma, allergies, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Coughing can be classified into two types: productive and nonproductive. A productive cough produces mucus or phlegm, while a nonproductive cough is dry and does not bring up anything.
What causes cough in winter?
There are many factors that can trigger or worsen a cough in winter, such as:
- Cold and dry air: Cold air can irritate the throat and lungs, causing inflammation and mucus production. Dry air can also dehydrate the mucous membranes, making them more prone to infection and irritation.
- Viral infections: Colds and flu are more common in winter, and they can cause a cough as part of the immune system’s response to fight off the virus. Viral infections can also lead to secondary bacterial infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, which can cause a more severe cough.
- Indoor allergens: Spending more time indoors in winter can expose you to more allergens, such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, and smoke. These can trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, and coughing.
- Reduced immunity: The winter season can lower your immunity, making you more susceptible to infections and inflammation. Factors that can weaken your immune system include stress, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise.
How to treat a cough in winter?
Depending on the cause and type of your cough, you may need different treatments. Some common treatments include:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: OTC cough medicines can help relieve a cough by suppressing the cough reflex, loosening the mucus, or reducing the inflammation. However, they may have side effects, such as drowsiness, nausea, or allergic reactions. They may also interact with other medications or conditions, so you should always consult your doctor before taking them.
- Prescription medications: If your cough is caused by a bacterial infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, you may need antibiotics to kill the bacteria. If your cough is caused by asthma or COPD, you may need inhalers or nebulizers to deliver medication directly to your lungs. You should always follow your doctor’s instructions on how to use these medications.
- Home remedies: Home remedies are natural and inexpensive ways to ease a cough. They can help soothe the throat, reduce the inflammation, thin the mucus, or boost the immunity. Some examples of home remedies for cough are:
- Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it can also act as a cough suppressant. You can take a spoonful of honey or add it to a hot drink, such as tea or lemon water. However, you should not give honey to children under 1 year old, as it may contain botulinum spores that can cause a serious illness called infant botulism¹.
- Ginger: Ginger has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, and it can also help relieve nausea and pain. You can make ginger tea by simmering a few slices of fresh ginger in boiling water, or you can add ginger to your food or smoothies. However, ginger may cause heartburn or interact with blood thinners, so you should be careful if you have these conditions².
- Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound that has antimicrobial and possibly antiviral properties. It may help reduce the severity of cold symptoms, such as coughing. You can eat raw garlic cloves, or you can add garlic to your soups, salads, or sauces. However, garlic may also cause bad breath, stomach upset, or interact with some medications, such as blood thinners or antivirals³.
How to prevent a cough in winter?
The best way to prevent a cough in winter is to avoid the factors that can trigger or worsen it. Some tips to prevent a cough in winter are:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your mucous membranes moist and prevent them from drying out. Water, herbal teas, soups, and juices are good choices. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they can dehydrate you and irritate your throat.
- Humidify the air: Using a humidifier or a vaporizer can add moisture to the air and prevent it from being too dry. This can help soothe your throat and lungs and reduce the coughing. However, you should clean your humidifier or vaporizer regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold.
- Avoid irritants: Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, chemicals, or perfumes that can irritate your airways and trigger a cough. If you smoke, quit or reduce your smoking, as it can damage your lungs and increase your risk of infections and chronic diseases. If you have allergies, use an air purifier or a HEPA filter to remove the allergens from the air.
- Boost your immunity: Strengthening your immune system can help you fight off infections and inflammation that can cause a cough. To boost your immunity, you should eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. You should also get enough sleep, exercise regularly, manage your stress, and wash your hands frequently. Additionally, you should get vaccinated against the flu and other preventable diseases, as recommended by your doctor.
When to see a doctor?
A cough is usually not a serious problem, and it often goes away on its own or with home remedies. However, sometimes a cough can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as pneumonia, asthma, or lung cancer. You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms along with your cough:
- A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Coughing up blood or bloody mucus
- A cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks
- A cough that interferes with your daily activities or sleep
- A cough that worsens or does not improve with treatment
- A history of lung disease, heart disease, or smoking
- A weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication
Your doctor can diagnose the cause of your cough and prescribe the appropriate treatment. They may also order some tests, such as a chest X-ray, a blood test, a sputum test, or a spirometry test, to check your lung function and rule out any complications.
Conclusion
A cough is a common symptom of colds and flu, especially in winter. It can be annoying and uncomfortable, but there are some natural ways to ease it. Home remedies, such as honey, ginger, and garlic, can help soothe the throat, reduce the inflammation, thin the mucus, or boost the immunity. However, they may not work for everyone, and they may have some side effects or interactions. Therefore, you should always consult your doctor before trying any home remedies. You should also see your doctor if your cough is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath. A cough can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as pneumonia, asthma, or lung cancer, and it may need medical attention. By following the tips in this blog post, you can prevent a cough in winter and enjoy a healthy and happy season.