Coughing is a reflex action that helps clear your airways of irritants and mucus. While coughing is usually a normal occurrence, a persistent cough can hinder your daily activities and disrupt your sleep.

To help you achieve a cough-free life, we have compiled a list of tips and tricks that can provide you with relief.

1. Keep yourself hydrated

Staying hydrated can help soothe a dry cough and keep your throat moist. Drink plenty of fluids like water, herbal teas, or warm broths throughout the day to keep your mucus thin and easy to expel, reducing the need to cough.

2. Use a humidifier

Dry air can irritate your airways and worsen coughing. Invest in a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home. This can help soothe your throat and reduce coughing episodes, especially during the night.

3. Gargle with saltwater

A saltwater gargle can provide temporary relief for a sore throat or a persistent cough. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle the solution for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Repeat this a few times a day to reduce throat inflammation.

4. Elevate your head while sleeping

When you lie flat, mucus can accumulate in your throat, leading to coughing. Elevate your head with an extra pillow or by propping up the head of your bed. This helps prevent mucus from pooling and reduces coughing during sleep.

5. Avoid irritants

Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, pollutants, strong chemicals, and allergens that can trigger coughing or worsen an existing cough. If you have allergies, take necessary precautions and avoid triggers to minimize coughing episodes.

6. Try over-the-counter remedies

Over-the-counter cough medicines and throat lozenges can provide temporary relief for a cough. Look for products containing ingredients like menthol or honey, which can help soothe your throat and suppress the urge to cough.

7. Use steam to your advantage

Inhaling steam can help loosen mucus and soothe your airways, reducing coughing. Take a hot shower, or fill a bowl with hot water and place your face above it, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam.

Breathe deeply for a few minutes to experience relief.

8. Practice good hand hygiene

Coughs can be contagious, especially if caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizers to prevent the spread of germs.

Regularly disinfect surfaces that come in contact with your hands, such as doorknobs and smartphones.

9. Avoid triggers in your diet

Some foods and beverages can trigger or irritate a cough. Pay attention to your diet and identify any specific triggers that may be causing your cough to worsen. Common culprits include spicy foods, cold beverages, and acidic fruits.

10. Seek medical advice if necessary

If your cough persists for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by severe symptoms, or if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or cough up blood, it is essential to seek medical advice.

A healthcare professional can diagnose the underlying cause of your cough and recommend appropriate treatment options.