What are the Home Remedies for Viral Cough?
March 14, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Viral coughs are often caused by respiratory viruses such as the common cold or the flu. While viral coughs typically resolve on their own within a week or two, there are several home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, clear broths, and warm lemon water with honey, to help soothe the throat, thin mucus, and prevent dehydration.
- Use honey: Honey has natural cough-suppressant and throat-soothing properties. Add a teaspoon of honey to herbal tea or warm water, or consume it directly. Note: Do not give honey to children under the age of one due to the risk of botulism.
- Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower can help loosen mucus, relieve congestion, and soothe a cough. You can also add essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint to the water for added benefits.
- Gargle with saltwater: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce irritation. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Use a humidifier: Using a humidifier or vaporizer in the bedroom can help add moisture to the air and alleviate dryness in the throat and nasal passages, which can worsen coughing.
- Elevate the head: Sleeping with the head elevated can help reduce postnasal drip and alleviate coughing at night. Use extra pillows or raise the head of the bed to achieve a comfortable elevation.
- Herbal teas: Drink herbal teas containing ingredients such as ginger, licorice root, chamomile, or peppermint, which have soothing properties and may help relieve coughing and congestion.
- Avoid irritants: Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, pollutants, and other irritants that can exacerbate coughing and irritation in the throat and airways.
- Rest: Get plenty of rest and avoid overexertion, as rest helps the body recover from illness and strengthens the immune system.
- Over-the-counter remedies: Consider using over-the-counter cough syrups or lozenges containing ingredients such as dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, or menthol to help suppress coughing and soothe the throat. However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
While these home remedies may help alleviate symptoms of a viral cough, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if the cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or high fever. These could be signs of a more serious respiratory infection that requires medical attention.