How to stop a cough fast: Medical and natural remedies

Coughs are a common ailment that can strike anyone at any time, often appearing as a symptom of a cold, allergies, or respiratory infection. While they serve as a natural reflex to clear the airways, coughs can be particularly disruptive, especially at night, when they interfere with sleep and lead to fatigue. The sound of a persistent cough can be bothersome not only for the individual but also for those around them, making it essential to find relief quickly.

This article aims to provide fast-acting options for both dry and wet coughs, exploring a range of medical and natural remedies that can help soothe irritation and promote a quicker recovery. Whether you're seeking immediate relief or looking for long-term solutions, we’ve got you covered with effective strategies to stop that cough in its tracks.

What causes a cough?

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps clear the airways of irritants, mucus, and foreign particles. While it serves an important purpose in protecting our respiratory system, understanding the underlying causes of a cough is crucial for effective treatment.

Common causes of coughing

• Viral Infections (Cold, Flu): One of the most prevalent causes of coughs is viral infections, particularly the common cold and influenza. These infections can lead to inflammation in the respiratory tract, resulting in a persistent cough as the body attempts to clear mucus and pathogens.
• Allergies or Asthma: Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can trigger coughing in sensitive individuals. Asthma, a chronic condition characterized by inflamed airways, can also lead to coughing, often accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Postnasal Drip: This occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the throat, often due to allergies, sinus infections, or colds. The mucus can irritate the throat, leading to a cough as the body tries to expel it.
• GERD (Acid Reflux): Gastroesophageal reflux disease can cause stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, irritating the throat and triggering a cough. This type of cough is often worse at night or after meals.
• Smoking: Tobacco smoke is a major irritant to the respiratory system. Smokers often develop a chronic cough due to the damage caused by smoke, which can lead to increased mucus production and airway inflammation.
• Environmental Irritants: Exposure to pollutants, strong odors, or chemicals can irritate the airways, resulting in a cough. This is common in urban areas or workplaces where irritants are prevalent.

Dry vs. productive coughs: What’s the difference?

Coughs can be classified into two main categories: dry coughs and productive coughs.

• Dry Cough: This type of cough is non-productive, meaning it does not produce mucus or phlegm. It is often caused by irritation in the throat or airways, which can result from viral infections, allergies, or environmental irritants. A dry cough can be particularly bothersome at night and may lead to throat discomfort.
• Productive Cough: In contrast, a productive cough is one that brings up mucus or phlegm. This type of cough is typically associated with infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia, where the body is trying to clear excess mucus from the lungs. A productive cough can be a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, but if it persists, it may require medical attention.

Fast natural remedies for cough relief

When you develop a cough that hangs on, finding quick and effective relief is essential, especially if it disrupts daily activities or sleep. Fortunately, there are several natural remedies that can provide soothing relief and help alleviate irritation in the throat:

1. Honey and warm water or tea

Honey has long been recognized for its soothing properties. Mixing honey with warm water or herbal tea can create a comforting drink that coats the throat and reduces irritation. Honey also has natural antibacterial properties and can help suppress coughs, making it an excellent choice for both dry and productive coughs.

2. Steam inhalation or hot shower

Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower can help loosen mucus and soothe inflamed airways. The warm, moist air helps to hydrate the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel mucus and providing relief from coughing. This method is particularly effective for those suffering from congestion due to colds or allergies.

3. Saltwater gargle

Gargling with warm salt water is a simple yet effective remedy for reducing throat inflammation and discomfort. The salt helps draw out excess fluid from swollen tissues, providing relief from soreness and irritation. This method can be particularly beneficial for a scratchy throat caused by coughing.

4. Ginger tea

Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Brewing ginger tea can provide warm relief and help reduce inflammation in the throat. Additionally, ginger can aid digestion and may help soothe a cough associated with acid reflux or gastrointestinal issues.

5. Throat lozenges or hard candy

Sucking on throat lozenges or hard candy can stimulate saliva production, which helps to keep the throat moist and eases the tickling sensation that often triggers coughing. This remedy is particularly useful for dry coughs and can provide immediate relief.

6. Using a humidifier

Using a humidifier, especially at night, can significantly improve air quality and alleviate coughing caused by dry air. Keeping the air moist helps soothe irritated airways and can reduce the frequency of coughing, making it easier to sleep through the night.

Over-the-counter medications that help with coughs

When a cough becomes bothersome, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide effective relief and help manage symptoms. These medications are designed to target specific types of coughs, making it essential to choose the right one based on your symptoms. Understanding the different categories of OTC medications can help you select the most appropriate option for your needs:

1. Cough Suppressants (Dextromethorphan)

Cough suppressants, such as dextromethorphan, are ideal for treating dry, hacking coughs that do not produce mucus. These medications work by acting on the brain's cough center to reduce the urge to cough, providing relief from persistent throat irritation. They are particularly useful at night, helping individuals get a good night's sleep without disruption from coughing.

2. Expectorants (Guaifenesin)

Expectorants like guaifenesin are designed to help loosen and thin mucus in wet coughs, making it easier to expel. By increasing the moisture in the airways, expectorants can aid in clearing out mucus and reducing the frequency of coughing. This type of medication is beneficial for those dealing with productive coughs associated with colds or respiratory infections.

3. Decongestants (Pseudoephedrine)

Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, are effective for coughs caused by postnasal drip. By reducing nasal congestion and swelling in the airways, these medications can help alleviate the irritation that triggers coughing. They are particularly helpful for individuals experiencing a cough related to sinus issues or allergies.

4. Antihistamines (Diphenhydramine)

If allergies are contributing to your cough, antihistamines like diphenhydramine can provide relief by blocking histamine, a substance that causes allergy symptoms. These medications can help reduce throat irritation and lessen coughing caused by allergic reactions. However, it’s important to note that some antihistamines may cause drowsiness, so they are best taken when you do not need to be alert.

Can I combine cough medications?

Many OTC cough and cold medications contain a combination of ingredients, targeting multiple symptoms simultaneously. These products may include a cough suppressant, expectorant, decongestant, and antihistamine all in one. While these can be convenient, it’s crucial to read the labels carefully to ensure that you are not taking multiple medications with the same active ingredients, which can lead to overdose.

Caution with certain medications

When considering OTC medications, it’s important to be cautious, especially for children. Many cough and cold medications are not recommended for young children due to potential side effects and the risk of overdose. Always consult with a healthcare professional before administering any medication to children, and follow the dosing instructions carefully for adults.

How to calm a cough at night

Coughing can be particularly disruptive at night, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to help calm a cough and promote restful sleep. Here are some tips for nighttime relief:

1. Elevate your head while sleeping

Propping up your head with an extra pillow or using a wedge pillow can help reduce coughing at night. Elevating your head can prevent mucus from pooling in the throat and minimize postnasal drip, which often triggers coughing. This position can also help ease breathing, making it more comfortable to sleep.

2. Run a humidifier

Using a humidifier in your bedroom can significantly improve air quality and alleviate coughing caused by dry air. The added moisture helps soothe irritated airways and keeps the throat moist, which can help reduce the urge to cough. Make sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.

3. Drink warm fluids before bed

Consuming warm fluids, such as herbal tea or warm water with honey, before bedtime can provide soothing relief for a cough. The warmth helps to relax the throat muscles and can ease irritation, making it easier to drift off to sleep. Additionally, hydration is important for thinning mucus, which can further reduce coughing.

4. Use nighttime cough medications if needed

If your cough is persistent and disruptive, consider using nighttime cough medications specifically formulated to provide relief during the night. These medications often contain ingredients that suppress coughing and may also promote drowsiness, helping you get the rest you need. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, especially if you are taking other medications.

When to visit urgent care for a cough

While many coughs can be managed at home with natural remedies or over-the-counter medications, certain warning signs indicate that a cough may require medical evaluation. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for ensuring timely treatment and preventing complications:

1. Cough lasting more than 7 days

If your cough persists for more than 7 days without improvement, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as a bacterial infection or chronic respiratory issue. Prolonged coughing should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

2. High fever

A high fever, especially when accompanied by a cough, could indicate an infection such as pneumonia or bronchitis. If you experience a fever above 101°F (38.3°C) that does not respond to over-the-counter medications, it’s important to seek medical attention.

3. Chest pain or wheezing

Experiencing chest pain or wheezing along with a cough can signal respiratory distress or complications such as bronchitis or asthma exacerbation. These symptoms should be evaluated promptly to ensure proper management and treatment.

4. Shortness of breath

If you find it difficult to breathe or experience shortness of breath while coughing, it is essential to seek medical care immediately. This could indicate a serious condition such as asthma, COPD, or even a pulmonary embolism that requires urgent evaluation.

5. Coughing up blood

Coughing up blood, even in small amounts, is a concerning symptom that warrants immediate medical attention. This could indicate a serious condition, such as a severe infection, lung disease, or other underlying health issues that need to be addressed.

6. You have underlying conditions like asthma or COPD

If you have pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), any significant change in your cough or respiratory symptoms should prompt a visit to urgent care. These conditions can complicate respiratory infections, and timely intervention is crucial.

Book an urgent care visit near you for fast cough relief

If your cough persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention. Find the best urgent care clinics near you using Solv.