Cough - How To Manage It?

Cough is a sign that there is something wrong with the throat. Be it an infection, a sore throat or food stuck in the windpipe, cough can start. While it may sometimes disappear, seldom, it may just refuse to go. This not just bothersome to you, it also irritates others in the surrounding and attracts attention. Everybody looks at you annoyed and gives a look which says “why don’t you do something about it?”

Well, there are definitely things that can help manage a nagging cough. Find out some for yourself!

1. Salt water gargling: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for about 1 minute. It helps soothe the throat and reduce the cough. It can also clear the bacteria along the throat, providing relief from the cough. If there is mucus lodged in the throat, it gets easily expelled too.
    
2. Honey: This sticky liquid coats the inflamed and irritated mucus membranes along the throat, and provides instant relief. It is also known for its antibacterial nature and has good enzymes from the bees, which are known for providing instant relief to both children and adults. The sweet taste makes it further appealing. Adding ground black pepper powder to it further improves the effect, as it clears congestion.
   
3. Steam: Cough is often the result of an irritated and inflamed throat mucosa. Inhaling steam is one of the best ways to soothe this mucosa and provide relief. It reduces mucosal inflammation and removes phlegm. Adding a few drops of essential oils like tea tree oil, etc. can further improve the effect. These have antibacterial and antiviral properties and so enhance the relief. With boiled water in a vessel, bend over it and cover your head to ensure the steam is inhaled. Be careful to avoid burns, as steam can burn. This can be repeated 4 to 5 times daily until you get sufficient relief.
    
4. Ginger and Mint: Another wonder substance is the ginger. To a cup of warm water, add honey, few slices of ginger, and some dried peppermint. This helps by acting as an expectorant and reduces irritation in the throat, which produces cough.
    
5. Cough drops: If you are in a public space and cannot do the above, try cough drops. Sucking on them can soothe the throat and the constant swallowing of saliva helps relieve the irritation in the throat.
    
6. Nasal irrigation: This helps relieve postnasal congestion and dripping, which often leads to troublesome cough.

These are some simple, effective ways to reduce constant coughing.