There are several ways to help stop coughing. Some of the most effective methods include:
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Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking fluids such as water, tea, or broth can help soothe an irritated throat and loosen mucus.
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Honey: Honey can help ease a cough. It soothes the scratchiness in the back of your throat and works just as well as over-the-counter drugs for calming nighttime coughs. Take a tablespoon as needed, or stir it into a warm drink. Don’t give honey to babies under age 1.
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Cough drops or hard candy: Cough drops or even hard candy can stop that tickle in the back of your throat. Don’t give the drops to children younger than 4.
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Humidifier: A steamy shower or bath can help loosen the mucus and congestion behind your cough. A humidifier also may help. Be sure to clean and change the filter as directed by the manufacturer. This prevents it from ... .
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Medicine: Over-the-counter cough medicine that says "suppressant" helps stop your urge to cough. Plus, it can help you sleep better. If its hard to get the mucus out, or if it’s thick, look for medicine that says “expectorant.” That loosens the gunk to help you get rid of it. If youre having post-nasal drip with lots of juicy mucous, you may do better with a medicine that dries you up like Sudafed (pseudoephedrine). Check with your doctor before using cough medicine for serious conditions like emphysema, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or asthma. Don’t give cough and cold medicine to children under 4.
It is important to note that if your cough doesnt go away or improve significantly after seven days, or if you also have difficulty breathing or are wheezing, its time to get checked by a doctor. Other serious symptoms include severe body aches, a fever over 101, difficulty swallowing, or chest pain.
