Coughs are one of the most common reasons people see their primary healthcare provider. Since most coughs are caused by common colds or environmental factors, over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines and at-home remedies usually fix the problem. However, it is important to visit your primary care physician to seek medical advice—and even prescription cough medicine—if a cough causes a fever or lasts longer than three weeks. Show
Causes of a coughWhile an occasional cough is normal, a cough that persists may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Coughs are a defensive reflex that aims to clear excessive secretions and foreign bodies from airways. However, severe and frequent coughing can significantly impact your quality of life. These are the main reasons for a cough:
Types of cough medicineVarious medications can be used to treat cough and cold symptoms, but only a few of them can quickly treat the symptoms. Here are the main types:
What are the best over-the-counter cough medicines?Most cases of the common cold can be treated without going to a healthcare provider, there are plenty of over-the-counter cough medicines you can pick up at your local drugstore without a prescription. Some of the more popular OTC, fast treatments for a cough include:
RELATED: Sudafed vs Mucinex If you find that OTC cough medicines are not working for you, and your symptoms worsen or persist, your doctor may prescribe medication to help. Considering that the most common causes of coughs are upper respiratory illnesses, and these are most commonly caused by viruses, it’s unlikely your GP will prescribe any antibiotics as a cough treatment. Antibiotics are only used for bacterial infections, such as strep throat. If you have a cough that you just can’t shake and it lasts more than three weeks, see your doctor and explore the possibility of an underlying condition that may need to be treated with prescription medication. What are the best prescription cough medicines?Although, there are many prescription cough medications on the market here are some your healthcare provider may prescribe for fast cough and pain relief:
Get a prescription coupon We strongly recommend that you speak with your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant or breastfeeding, or before giving any medication to children under 12 years of age. How to take cough medicineCough medicine is available in a variety of forms, including syrups, powders, pills, capsules, and nasal sprays. Often the form that’s best for you is just personal preference. For example, many children struggle to swallow tablets, especially when they have a sore throat, so a syrup may be the best option.
What are the best home remedies for a cough?While there are many medicines available to help ease your cough, there are also a number of things you can do at home that don’t require medication and can be very effective. Cough remedies include:
Most of the time over-the-counter and home remedies will effectively combat an irritating cough but if the cough persists or gets worse you should make an appointment with your healthcare provider. And it’s always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider when taking any medications, whether they are OTC or prescription, especially before giving them to children. What is the best medicine to break up chest congestion?Expectorants, such as guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin) can thin and loosen mucus so it will clear out of your throat and chest. Prescription medications. Mucolytics, such as hypertonic saline (Nebusal) and dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) are mucus thinners that you inhale through a nebulizer.
What is the fastest way to loosen chest congestion?Take a hot shower and breathe in the steam to ease congestion. Try an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease body aches and reduce fever. Use saline drops or nasal spray to alleviate congestion. Use lozenges to keep your throat moist.
How do I loosen phlegm in my chest?Humidify the air. Moisturizing the air around you can help keep mucus thin. ... . Stay hydrated and warm. ... . Consume respiratory health-promoting ingredients. ... . Gargle salt water or use saline. ... . Use eucalyptus oil. ... . Take over-the-counter remedies. ... . Try prescription medications.. |