A sharp cough generally develops as a symptom of the common cold, bronchitis, or allergies. While there may not be a cure for a sharp cough, home remedies may soothe the throat and provide temporary relief. Consult a physician if your cough is accompanied by a high fever, blood, or vomiting or if you have trouble breathing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, recommends avoiding cough medicine for children under the age of 2.
Honey
A 2007 study by Penn State's Milton Hershey Medical Center reports that participants preferred honey as a cough remedy over dextromethorphan, or DM, an active ingredient in many over-the-counter cough medicines. Researchers found that honey not only improves cough symptoms, but may also help you sleep better. Add honey to an herbal tea or a glass of warm water, and mix well. Drink the mixture as needed throughout the day and just before bedtime to help nighttime coughing. While honey is a safe remedy for children, you should never give honey to infants under the age of 1 due to the risk of botulism.
Saline Spray
Use over-the-counter saline sprays to decrease congestion, clear your airways and provide cough relief. According to the Mayo Clinic, saline sprays are not addictive or irritating, making them safe for both adults and children. Saline sprays may be purchased as your local pharmacy or drugstore. Use as directed, as often as necessary.
Fluids
Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal tea, juice and clear broth to prevent dehydration and loosen congestion. Fluids also help to thin mucus, making coughing it up easier and providing relief to a dry throat. The Mayo Clinic says to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks such as coffee or soda, which may make dehydration worse. Gargling with warm salt water may also soothe your throat and relieve a sharp cough.
Vaporizer
Place a cool-mist vaporizer in your bedroom to create moisture while you sleep. The moisture in the air eases congestion and helps to soothe a dry throat. Run the vaporizer 30 minutes before bedtime to moisten the air and provide cough relief, which may make sleeping a bit easier. Change the water daily and clean the vaporizer as directed to avoid the growth of mold or bacteria.
Avoid Smoke
Avoid prolonged exposure to airborne irritants such as cigarette smoke. If you are experiencing a cough as a smoker, stop smoking. Cigarette smoke further irritates airways and may lead to a chronic cough that doesn't go away. If you don't smoke, avoid secondhand cigarette smoke at home or in the workplace.
