Coughing and a sore throat cause discomfort and often disrupt sleep or daily activities. Both symptoms accompany several different ailments, such as the flu and the common cold. A viral infection causing the sore throat and cough cannot be treated with antibiotics. Bacterial infections often respond to antibiotics, but the symptoms may not go away immediately. Home remedies often ease the discomfort of the symptoms.
Gargling
Gargling offers some relief for a sore throat, according to MayoClinic.com. A mixture of a half tsp. of salt and a glass of warm water works well for gargling. Spit out the salt water after gargling, repeating as necessary throughout the day. The gargling action helps to remove mucus while soothing the throat. Gargling may help to soothe your cough if it stems from a dry, scratchy throat.
Honey & Lemon
Honey and lemon offers another soothing method of relief, according to MayoClinic.com. The honey provides a soothing coating to your throat, while the lemon helps to reduce mucus. Mix together honey and lemon in a glass of really hot water. Let it cool to a comfortable sipping temperature. The pain relief is usually temporary, so repeat as necessary. Children under 12 months of age should never consume honey. It presents a risk of infant botulism.
Hard Candy
Hard candy or throat lozenges help to moisten the throat by increasing saliva production. The additional saliva eases throat pain and helps cleanse the throat. The extra saliva can also help to calm a cough, at least temporarily. Avoid giving hard candies or throat lozenges to young children because of the choking hazard.
Steam & Humidity
Both steam and humidity offer relief for sore throats and coughing. Steam helps to break up mucus that may cause coughing or sore throats. It also helps to reduce the irritation. Holding your face over steaming water with a towel over your head works well for adults and older children. Peppermint or eucalyptus oil in the water can increase the effectiveness of the steam. For younger children, a safer option is to turn the bathroom into a steam room. Turn the shower on with hot water running to create steam. Keep the door closed to trap the steam. Sit with your child in the bathroom for 15 to 20 minutes.
A humidifier moistens the air, easing irritation to the mucus membranes. The humidifier often makes it easier to sleep at night. Change the water daily and clean the humidifier on a regular basis to prevent mold or bacteria growth.
