How to Get Rid of Cough Fast: Remedies, Medications, and Prevention

Introduction

Coughing can be annoying and uncomfortable, especially when it disrupts daily life activities such as sleeping, working, or socializing. A cough is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of irritants or mucus, but it can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as asthma, allergies, or respiratory infections. Depending on the cause of the cough, different remedies and treatments may be needed. This article will provide tips on how to get rid of a cough fast using remedies from the kitchen, practicing healthy habits, over-the-counter medication, natural remedies, and prevention.

Remedies from the Kitchen

The kitchen has many ingredients with medicinal properties that can help alleviate coughs. These ingredients are readily available, affordable, and easy to use. Here are some common kitchen remedies for coughs:

Honey and Ginger Tea: Honey and ginger are well-known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. They can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing. To make this tea, boil water in a pot, add grated ginger and a tablespoon of honey. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. Strain the tea and drink it while it’s warm.
Turmeric Milk with Honey: Turmeric has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can help clear the mucus and soothe the throat. To make this recipe, heat a cup of milk in a pan, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper, and a tablespoon of honey. Mix it well and drink it before going to bed.
Lemon and Honey: Lemon and honey can help alleviate coughs due to their antibacterial and antiviral properties. Squeeze the juice of a lemon into a glass, add a tablespoon of honey, and mix well. Drink this mixture twice a day for best results.

Practice Healthy Habits

Adopting healthy habits can help strengthen the immune system, prevent infections, and alleviate coughs. Here are some tips to practice healthy habits:

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that can help boost immunity and fight infections. Aim to have at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
Drink Plenty of Fluids: Staying hydrated can help thin the mucus and reduce coughing. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, as well as herbal teas, soups, and broths.
Regularly Exercise: Exercise can improve respiratory function, boost immunity, and reduce stress, which can trigger coughs. Aim to have at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day.
Get Enough Sleep: Sleep is essential for the body to heal and recharge. Aim to have at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Create a relaxing and comfortable sleep environment.

Over-the-Counter Medication

Over-the-counter (OTC) cough medications can help alleviate coughing and other symptoms such as congestion or sore throat. There are different types of OTC cough medications that target different symptoms:

Cough Suppressants: Cough suppressants block the cough reflex and can be helpful for dry coughs. Examples include dextromethorphan (DM) and codeine. These medications should not be used in children under six years old.
Expectorants: Expectorants help to loosen the mucus and make it easier to cough it up. Examples include guaifenesin and ammonium chloride.
Decongestants: Decongestants help to reduce nasal and sinus congestion, which can trigger coughs. Examples include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.
Antihistamines: Antihistamines block the release of histamine and can be helpful for coughs due to allergies. Examples include diphenhydramine and loratadine.

OTC cough medications have side effects and may interact with other medications or medical conditions. Follow the instructions on the label, and consult with a pharmacist or healthcare professional before using them.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies such as herbs may help alleviate coughs. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using them, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.

Peppermint: Peppermint has menthol that can help loosen the mucus and clear the airways. You can drink peppermint tea, inhale peppermint oil, or use cough drops containing peppermint.
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus has cineole that can help reduce inflammation and clear the mucus. You can use eucalyptus essential oil in a diffuser or inhaler or mix it with coconut oil and apply it on the chest.
Slippery Elm: Slippery elm has mucilage that can help coat the throat and soothe irritation. You can drink slippery elm tea or take it in tablet or powder form.
Mullein: Mullein has saponins that can help relax the airways and ease coughing. You can drink mullein tea or take it in tablet or liquid form.
Thyme: Thyme has flavonoids that can help calm the cough reflex and reduce inflammation. You can drink thyme tea or use it in cooking.

Prevention

Preventing coughs before they occur is important for maintaining good health. Here are some tips to prevent coughs:

Wash Hands Frequently: Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria that cause coughs.
Cover Mouth and Nose: Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Throw away used tissues immediately and wash hands. Avoid touching the face.
Avoid Close Contact: Avoid close contact with sick people, especially those who have coughs or sneezes.
Clean and Disinfect: Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops, using a disinfectant spray or wipe.
Get Vaccinated: Getting vaccinated against flu and pneumonia can protect against respiratory infections that cause coughs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, getting rid of coughs fast is possible by using remedies from the kitchen, practicing healthy habits, taking OTC medications, using natural remedies, and preventing coughs before they occur. These tips and remedies can help alleviate coughs due to different causes, such as colds, flu, allergies, or respiratory infections. Consult with a healthcare professional if the cough persists or worsens, or if there are other symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing. Try these tips and see which ones work best for you to get rid of coughs fast and effectively.