Chronic Cough (cont.)

Chronic cough in adults can be treated with some home remedies. Consult your doctor for the home remedies that might be best for you.

• Stay hydrated. Fluids can help thin secretions.
  
  
• Gargling with hot saltwater can help cleanse the throat and rid it of mucus.
  
  
• Elevate your head with extra pillows at night to ease a chronic dry cough.
  
  
• Cough drops may soothe an irritated throat.
  
  
• Do not smoke or use tobacco products.
  
  
• Avoid inhaled irritants such as smoke, dust, or other pollutants.
  
  
• Honey is often can be an effective treatment for a persistent cough. Add honey to hot tea, or even grape juice.
  
  
• Ginger, prepared as a tea, is often used to help reduce symptoms of chronic cough and clear the nasal passages.
  
  
• Other herbs such as eucalyptus or mint are often used to relieve cough symptoms.

• Don't smoke, as smoking is the most common cause of chronic cough.
  
  
• Talk to your physician about managing your asthma, postnasal drip, or GERD to avoid cough symptoms.
  
  
• Stay away from others known to be sick with bronchitis or pneumonia.
  
  
• Eat fruit. Research suggests that diets high in fruit fiber and flavonoids may prevent chronic productive cough.

REFERENCES:

Home Remedies for You.

MedicineNet.com. Pertussis.

Medscape.com. Diet High in Fruit Fiber and Flavonoids May Prevent Chronic Productive Cough.

National Lung Health Education Program. Chronic Cough.

UpToDate. Patient information: Chronic cough in adults.

WebMD.com. Coughs Home Treatment.

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/chronic_cough/article.htm