To stop a coughing fit effectively, you can try the following techniques:
Immediate Techniques to Stop a Coughing Fit
- Stop-Cough Technique : At the first sign of a tickle or urge to cough, put your hand over your mouth to prevent a big breath through the mouth, which can worsen the cough. Then swallow once, hold your breath for a few seconds, and breathe slowly and gently through your nose for at least 30 seconds while keeping your hand over your mouth. Repeat if necessary
- Hold Your Breath : When you feel the urge to cough, try holding your breath as long as you can, then take short shallow breaths. Repeat this pattern until the urge subsides. This helps reduce the cough reflex
- Breathe Out Against Resistance : Breathe or cough with pursed lips or through your fist to slow the exhaled air and protect your bronchial tubes, which can reduce coughing intensity
- Drink Fluids : Sip still water or lukewarm tea to keep your throat moist and soothe irritation. Drinking helps reduce the urge to cough by keeping mucosal membranes hydrated
- Suck on Sweets or Chew Gum : This stimulates saliva flow, which keeps the throat moist and can reduce tickling sensations that trigger coughing
Additional Tips to Manage and Prevent Coughing Fits
- Use a humidifier to keep air moist, especially in dry environments, which soothes irritated airways
- Avoid irritants such as smoke, strong odors, and allergens that can trigger coughing fits
- Practice good hygiene to avoid infections that may cause coughing fits
- Rest and avoid strenuous exercise during a coughing fit to prevent worsening symptoms
When to Seek Medical Help
If coughing fits are persistent, severe, or accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, or fever, consult a healthcare professional promptly
. By combining these techniques and lifestyle adjustments, you can often stop or reduce the severity of coughing fits and improve comfort.
