How to Get Rid of a Cough fast? Types, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants and mucus. However, when a cough becomes persistent or disruptive, it can be bothersome and impact daily life. Whether it’s due to a common cold, allergies, or respiratory infections, finding relief from a cough is essential.

Types of cough

There are several types of cough, each characterized by its unique features and underlying causes. Understanding the different types of cough can help in identifying the underlying condition and guiding appropriate treatment. Here are some common types of cough:

Dry Cough: Also known as a non-productive cough, a dry cough does not produce phlegm or mucus. It is often caused by irritants, allergies, viral infections, or the early stages of a respiratory infection. Dry coughs can be persistent and can cause discomfort and irritation in the throat.

Wet or Productive Cough: A wet cough is characterized by the production of phlegm or mucus. It helps to clear the airways and remove excessive mucus or irritants. Wet coughs are often associated with respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic lung conditions such as COPD.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease causing restricted airflow and breathing problems.

Reference: www.who.int

Barky Cough: This type of cough is characterized by a harsh, barking sound, often seen in children with croup. Croup is a viral infection that affects the upper airways, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the vocal cords.

Whooping Cough: Also known as pertussis, whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound during inhalation. Whooping cough is more common in infants and young children.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis.

Reference: cdc.gov

Chronic Cough: A chronic cough lasts for more than eight weeks in adults or four weeks in children. It can be caused by various factors, including postnasal drip, asthma, GERD, chronic bronchitis, or medications. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

Nighttime Cough: Coughing that primarily occurs at night can disrupt sleep and be a symptom of various conditions, such as postnasal drip, asthma, heart failure, or acid reflux. Treating the underlying cause can help alleviate nighttime coughing.

Allergic Cough: An allergic cough is triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. It is often accompanied by other allergic symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, or itchy eyes.

Psychogenic Cough: Sometimes, coughing can be caused or worsened by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or habit cough. This type of cough is typically persistent and not associated with an underlying physical condition.

What Causes a cough?

Coughing can be caused by various factors and underlying conditions. Some common causes of cough include:

Respiratory Infections: The most common cause of a cough is respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu (influenza), bronchitis, or pneumonia. These infections can lead to coughing as the body tries to clear mucus and irritants from the airways.

Allergies: Allergic reactions to substances like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods can trigger coughing. Allergies can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to coughing and other respiratory symptoms.

Asthma: Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Coughing is a common symptom of asthma and can be triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air, or respiratory infections.

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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. Chronic coughing can be a symptom of GERD, particularly when acid reflux reaches the throat.

Postnasal Drip: When excess mucus drips down the back of the throat from the nasal passages, it can trigger a cough. Postnasal drip is often associated with allergies, sinus infections, or nasal congestion.

Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, pollution, strong odors, or chemical fumes can irritate the airways and lead to coughing as a protective mechanism.

Medications: Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure, can cause a persistent cough as a side effect in some individuals.

Lung Conditions: Chronic lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, or interstitial lung disease can cause chronic coughing due to the ongoing inflammation and damage to the lungs.

Foreign Body: In children, coughing can occur if they have inhaled or swallowed a foreign object that irritates the airways.

Psychological Factors: In some cases, coughing can be triggered or exacerbated by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or habit cough.

How serious is a cough?

The seriousness of a cough can vary depending on its underlying cause, duration, and accompanying symptoms. In most cases, a cough is a normal reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants or mucus.

However, when a cough becomes persistent, severe, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.

A mild cough that lasts for a short duration and is not accompanied by other symptoms is generally not a cause for alarm. It is often associated with common colds or respiratory infections and tends to resolve on its own with time.

However, if a cough persists for more than a few weeks, becomes increasingly severe, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, it is important to seek medical evaluation.

Certain types of coughs, such as a persistent or chronic cough, can indicate underlying conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These conditions may require proper diagnosis and treatment to manage the underlying cause and alleviate the cough.

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In some cases, a cough can be a symptom of more serious respiratory infections or conditions, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, tuberculosis, or lung cancer. These conditions require medical attention for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Additionally, specific populations, such as infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, may be more vulnerable to complications from a cough. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

It is important to note that self-diagnosing the severity of a cough can be challenging, as the underlying cause may not always be apparent.

Therefore, if you have concerns about the seriousness of a cough or if it is causing significant discomfort or interference with daily life, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance.

Dry cough symptoms

A dry cough, also known as a non-productive cough, is characterized by coughing without the presence of mucus or phlegm. It can be caused by various factors, including respiratory infections, allergies, irritants, or certain medical conditions. Here are the common symptoms associated with a dry cough:

1. Persistent Coughing: A dry cough typically persists for an extended period, often lasting for weeks or even longer.
2. Irritation in the Throat: Individuals with a dry cough often experience throat irritation or a tickling sensation that triggers the cough reflex.
3. Absence of Phlegm or Mucus: Unlike a wet or productive cough, a dry cough does not produce any phlegm or mucus when coughing.
4. Soreness or Tenderness in the Chest: Frequent coughing can lead to soreness or discomfort in the chest area.
5. Coughing Fits: Dry coughs may occur in sudden fits or bouts, where the coughing can be intense and repetitive.
6. Worsening at Night: Dry coughs may worsen during nighttime, disrupting sleep and causing further irritation to the throat.
7. Hoarseness: Prolonged or frequent dry coughing can strain the vocal cords, resulting in hoarseness or a raspy voice.
8. Triggers or Aggravating Factors: Certain factors can trigger or exacerbate a dry cough, such as exposure to irritants (e.g., smoke, dust, chemicals), cold air, physical activity, or talking.

What not to eat when coughing?

When experiencing a cough, there are certain foods and beverages that you may want to avoid as they can exacerbate coughing or irritate the throat. Here are some items that are best to steer clear of:

Caffeinated Beverages: Drinks like coffee, black tea, and energy drinks contain caffeine, which can cause dehydration and dry out the throat, leading to increased coughing and irritation. It’s best to opt for non-caffeinated alternatives or soothing herbal teas.

Sugary Foods and Drinks: Excessive intake of sugary foods and beverages can promote mucus production and worsen congestion, which can trigger or intensify coughing. Avoid sugary sodas, candies, pastries, and processed snacks.

Spicy and Acidic Foods: Spicy foods, hot peppers, and acidic ingredients like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can irritate the throat, leading to increased coughing and discomfort. It’s advisable to temporarily avoid these foods until the cough subsides.

Dairy Products: Dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can thicken mucus and promote congestion, potentially worsening coughing symptoms. If you notice that dairy exacerbates your cough, try avoiding it temporarily or opting for dairy alternatives like almond milk or lactose-free options.

Fried and Greasy Foods: Greasy or fried foods can trigger acid reflux or heartburn, which can lead to a persistent cough. These foods can irritate the digestive system and cause discomfort, so it’s best to choose lighter, easily digestible meals during a cough.

Cold and Carbonated Drinks: Cold beverages and carbonated drinks can cause throat constriction and make coughing more uncomfortable. Opt for room temperature or warm fluids to soothe the throat and alleviate coughing.

Alcohol and Smoking: Alcohol can dehydrate the body and worsen cough symptoms. Smoking, whether active or passive, can irritate the airways and prolong coughing. It’s essential to avoid alcohol consumption and stay away from smoke to support respiratory health.

Cough Treatment: How to Get Rid of a Cough?

Let’s know various strategies and remedies to help you get rid of a cough and promote a speedy recovery.

Identify the Underlying Cause:

Determining the cause of your cough is crucial for effective treatment. Common causes include viral infections, allergies, sinusitis, asthma, acid reflux, or smoking. Understanding the root cause will guide you towards the appropriate remedies.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking plenty of fluids helps soothe the throat, thin mucus, and ease coughing. Opt for warm water, herbal teas, warm broths, or honey-infused warm water. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages as they can worsen dehydration.

Humidify the Air:

Dry air can irritate the airways and exacerbate coughing. Use a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air in your living space, especially during the winter months or in dry climates. Alternatively, taking a hot shower or inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can provide temporary relief.

Gargle with Warm Saltwater:

Saltwater gargles help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat several times a day as needed.

Use Cough Drops or Lozenges:

Cough drops or lozenges can provide temporary relief by numbing the throat and suppressing the cough reflex. Look for options containing menthol, honey, or herbal extracts. Avoid giving lozenges to young children to prevent choking hazards.

Honey and Herbal Remedies:

Honey has natural soothing properties and can help alleviate coughing. Mix a teaspoon of honey in warm water or herbal tea and consume it a few times a day. Herbal teas with ingredients like ginger, chamomile, or licorice root can also provide relief.

Over-the-Counter Medications:

Consider over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants to alleviate cough symptoms. Cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan, can help calm the cough reflex, while expectorants, like guaifenesin, help loosen mucus. Read and follow the instructions carefully, and consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional if needed.

Rest and Sleep:

Adequate rest and sleep are crucial for your body’s healing process. Make sure to get sufficient rest to support your immune system and allow your body to recover from the underlying cause of the cough.

Avoid Irritants and Allergens:

Identify and avoid irritants that can worsen your cough, such as smoke, strong perfumes, dust, or pollutants. If you have allergies, take steps to minimize exposure to allergens and consider using allergy medications or nasal sprays.

Seek Medical Advice:

If your cough persists for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by severe symptoms, or if you have other concerning health issues, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis, rule out any serious underlying conditions, and prescribe appropriate treatment if necessary.