Coughing is a symptom of many illnesses, infections, and respiratory conditions. It is the body’s natural way of clearing the airways of irritants, mucus, and foreign particles.

While coughing can be helpful in removing irritants from the throat and lungs, it can also be disruptive and uncomfortable. In this article, we’ll be discussing ways to reduce cough intensity and frequency.

Use a Humidifier

Dry air can irritate the throat and lungs, making coughing worse. Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and soothe irritated airways.

Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oils to the humidifier can also help to ease congestion.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids can help to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep the body hydrated.

Drinking warm liquids, such as tea or soup, can also help to soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Hot Shower or Bath

Taking a hot shower or bath can help to open up airways and calm coughing. The steam from the hot water helps to moisturize the nasal passages, reduce inflammation, and clear out mucus.

You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the shower or bath to enhance the effects.

Raise Your Head

Elevating your head while sleeping can help to reduce coughing at night. This can be done by placing an extra pillow under your head or using a wedge pillow.

Raising the head helps to keep the airways open and prevent mucus from pooling in the throat, reducing coughing.

Related Article How to Overcome a Persistent Cough

Chest Rub

Using a chest rub can help to relieve coughing and congestion. Chest rubs are infused with menthol or eucalyptus which help to open up airways and reduce inflammation. Applying the rub to the chest and back can help to ease the symptoms of a cough.

Herbal Tea

Drinking herbal tea can help to soothe the throat and calm coughing. Teas infused with herbs such as ginger, honey, and lemon can help to reduce inflammation and thin mucus.

Herbal teas also contain antioxidants that can boost the immune system and help the body to fight off infections.

Avoid Irritants

Avoiding irritants such as smoke, dust, and other pollutants can help to reduce coughing. These irritants can inflame the airways and cause coughing, making it difficult to breathe.

If you are a smoker, quitting smoking can help to reduce coughing and improve overall lung health.

Saline Nasal Spray

By using a saline nasal spray, you can help to moisturize the nasal passages and reduce congestion. The spray contains a saltwater solution that helps to break up mucus and soothe the lining of the nasal passages.

Using a saline nasal spray can also help to reduce sinus infections and allergies that can cause coughing.

Avoid Cold Foods and Drinks

Cold foods and drinks can irritate the throat and trigger coughing. It is best to avoid cold foods and drinks when you are experiencing a cough. Opt for foods that are warm or at room temperature, such as soup or tea.

Medical Treatment

If your cough persists or worsens, it is recommended to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications such as cough suppressants, expectorants, or inhalers to help manage your symptoms.

They may also perform tests such as X-rays or pulmonary function tests to diagnose the underlying cause of your cough.