Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to thin mucus and soothe your throat. Aim for at least eight glasses a day.
Try a humidifier or steam inhalation. Warm, moist air can help loosen congestion. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water for added relief (but always test a small amount on your skin first for allergies).
- Gargle with warm salt water (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day. This helps reduce throat irritation. Consider honey. A spoonful of honey can coat your throat and suppress the cough reflex. Do not give honey to children under one year old. Consume soothing foods and drinks like warm broths or herbal teas with lemon and ginger. Avoid irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Quit smoking. Smoking is a major irritant and significantly worsens chronic cough. Seek support if you need help quitting. Avoid known allergens and irritants. Identify triggers like dust, pollen, or pet dander, and take steps to minimize exposure. Improve indoor air quality. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne particles. Manage postnasal drip. This often contributes to a chronic cough. Consider saline nasal sprays or rinse to clear nasal passages.
Get enough rest. Your body needs time to heal. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
If your cough persists or worsens, consult a doctor. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
