A Physician's Quick Guide on How To Get Rid Of A Cough Fast

Does your cough bother you? Cough is your body's natural way of clearing your airways.

When irritants clog your throat, your body kicks into action with a cough to clear them out and keep you breathing smoothly.

Who is more likely to experience a cough? Just about anybody can get a cough. 

You might be wondering how to get rid of a cough fast and we will discuss that.

This guide is designed to give you a quick guide on the causes of cough, how to stop a cough, and prevent its spread.

What are the most common causes of cough?

If you are asking yourself 'Why am I coughing so much?'
Below are the major causes of cough:

• Infectious

  • Colds and flu

  • Sinusitis

  • Pneumonia: Bacterial or viral infection of the lung tissue.

  • Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes

• Non-Infectious

  • Allergies and asthma

  • Irritants like smoke, dust, strong odors, and cold air

  • Postnasal drip

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Certain medications, like blood pressure medications

  • Vocal cord dysfunction

  • Heart failure

  • Foreign body aspiration

  • Dry air

  • Other conditions: Sleep apnea, lung cancer, and whooping cough can also cause coughing.

How to stop your cough fast

Here's a breakdown of how to stop coughing:

• Home Remedies

  • Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm liquids like tea or broth

  • Inhale steam from a hot shower or use a humidifier     

  • Honey  (not for kids less than 1 year)

  • Head elevation while sleeping to prevent mucus from dripping down your throat and triggering coughs.

• Over-the-Counter Medications

  • Cough suppressants to reduce the urge to cough, especially dry cough.

  • Expectorants make it easier to cough up mucus for a wet cough.

  • Decongestants to clear your airways 

• Addressing Underlying Conditions

  • Allergies and Asthma: If your cough is from allergies that won't go away, manage it with antihistamines, inhalers, or other medications prescribed by your doctor. Avoid triggers.

  • Acid Reflux (GERD): Lifestyle changes like taking antacids, avoiding certain foods and medications, late dinners, or taking antacids

  • Other Medical Conditions: For more serious conditions, seek medical attention.

When to go to hospital for a cough

What if you have a cough that won't go away?

You should see a doctor if:

• Your cough persists for more than 3 weeks.

• Your cough produces yellow, green, or bloody mucus.

• Your cough is accompanied by fever, night sweats, shortness of breath, chest pain, bloody mucus, or trouble sleeping.

• Your cough interferes with your daily life or ability to work.

• Do you have any concerns about the cause or severity of your cough?

General Tips on Prevention

• Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly: Focus on high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.

• Sleep well and manage stress: A strong immune system is your best defense against illness. 

• Vaccinate: Getting vaccinated against seasonal flu and other vaccine-preventable respiratory illnesses.

• Avoid sharing personal items like cups, utensils, or towels with someone who is sick.

• Consider wearing a mask in crowded places or during flu season if you are at high risk for complications from respiratory illnesses.

• Don't smoke or vape, as these activities can irritate your lungs and make you more susceptible to infections.

• Volunteer in research that could change how we manage coughs in the environment.

Be a part of the solution.

Do you know that you can be a part of the solution?

Yes, you can. By joining Infiuss Health's research community, you can help yourself and the people around you. 

Doing so is quite simple. All you have to do is: 

• Fill out a quick questionnaire: It takes just a few minutes to share your data, and cough experiences, and answer some basic questions.

• Safe and secure: At Infiuss Health, we are committed to protecting your privacy. Your data is anonymized and handled with the utmost care, adhering to strict ethical guidelines.

How can your participation help everyone?

• Help cough research: Your data, combined with the data of others, helps researchers get solutions.

• Empower your community: By sharing your experiences, and information, you become an advocate for better health care for everyone.