Coughing is your body's way of clearing irritating material and mucus from the airway. Coughs can also be the result of illness. Acute coughs, which last no longer than three weeks, often develop along with a cold, a sinus infection or the flu. Chronic coughs, which last longer, can develop after an illness, such as bronchitis, or be the symptom of an illness such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Smoking and allergies can also result in a chronic cough. Consult your physician to ensure a home remedy is right for your condition.
Fluids
Drinking plenty of liquids thins out the mucus in your throat. Warm fluids, such as tea and soups, also soothe irritation that can aggravate coughs.
Honey
Add a spoonful of honey to warm water or tea and drink. Honey is as effective at suppressing coughs as over-the-counter cough remedies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Moisture
Use a humidifier or take a warm shower. You can also inhale steam by draping a towel over your head and leaning over a bowl of hot water. The added moisture soothes irritation and reduces coughs.
Avoid Irritations
If you are a smoker, stop smoking. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, chemicals and household cleaners, which can all irritate your throat and trigger coughs.
Medication
There are several types of cough medications available over the counter. Use a cough suppressant for dry, hacking coughs. Take an expectorant for a productive cough, to loosen the congestion. If your cough is due to allergies, take an antihistamine. Treat coughs due to COPD and asthma with a bronchodilator.
