How to Get Rid of a Cough in 5 Minutes

What Is a Cough?

Coughing is a common reflex that helps to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, and other foreign substances. However, chronic coughing can be irritating and uncomfortable, and it can affect your daily routine. If you’re wondering how to get rid of a cough in 5 minutes, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss some quick and easy remedies that can help you get rid of a cough fast.

Types and Symptoms of coughs

Coughing can be a symptom of various conditions and illnesses, and it can present in different types.

Here are some common cough types and their associated symptoms:

Dry cough

These are allergy symptoms that do not produce any phlegm or mucus. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infections, allergies, and environmental irritants. Symptoms of dry cough include a persistent tickling or itching sensation in the throat, as well as a scratchy or sore throat.

Wet coughs

A wet cough, also known as a productive cough, is a cough that produces phlegm or mucus. This type of cough is often associated with respiratory illnesses like bronchitis or pneumonia. Symptoms of a wet cough include the production of thick or discolored mucus, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort.

Chronic cough

A chronic cough is a cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including smoking, environmental irritants, pregnancy and underlying medical conditions like asthma or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Symptoms of include chronic coughing, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing.

Nighttime cough

A nocturnal time cough is a cough that worsens at night and can interfere with sleep. This type of cough can be caused by postnasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or asthma. Symptoms of nocturnal cough include coughing fits that disrupt sleep and daytime fatigue.

Hacking cough

It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, as well as underlying medical conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symptoms of a hacking cough include a loud, chronic cough, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing.

Chesty Cough

A chesty cough is a type of cough that produces mucus or phlegm from the chest. It is usually caused by an infection or irritation in the airways or lungs. Symptoms can include a wet or rattling sound when breathing, difficulty breathing, and coughing up yellow or green mucus. Chesty coughs can be treated with medication, cough suppressants, and natural remedies like steam and hot drinks.

If you are experiencing a persistent or severe cough, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Understand the Causes of Coughing

Coughing is a natural reflex that helps to clear your airways of irritants like mucus, dust, and other particles. However, when coughing becomes persistent and frequent, it can be an indication of an underlying health condition. Before we jump into the remedies, it’s important to understand the causes of coughing. Coughing can be caused by a number of factors such as:

Allergies

Allergies are a common cause of coughing. When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system releases histamines, which can cause inflammation and irritation in your airways. This can result in a dry cough that is often accompanied by further symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.

Infections

Infections like the common cold, flu and other upper respiratory tract infections can also cause coughing. These infections can lead to an accumulation of mucus and irritants in your lungs and airways, resulting in a productive cough that can last for several weeks.

Smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of chronic coughing. Smoking can irritate your airways, leading to inflammation and damage to your lung tissues. This can cause a persistent cough that is often accompanied by different symptoms like heart pain, shortness of breath, and a wheezing sound too.

Acid reflux

Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into your esophagus. This can cause irritation and inflammation in your throat, leading to a nonproductive cough that often gets worse at night.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of your airways. This can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, and a persistent cough that is often worse at night or early in the morning.

Exposure to irritants

Exposure to irritants like pollen, dust, smoke, and pollution from cold air can also cause coughing. These irritants can cause inflammation and irritation in your airways, leading to a nonproductive cough that can last for several days.

Post nasal drip

Post nasal drip occurs when mucus from your nose drips down the back of your throat. This can irritate your lungs and throat, leading to a wet cough that can be persistent and difficult to treat.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

GERD is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. This can cause a dry cough that is often worse at night or after meals.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

COPD is a progressive respiratory condition that can cause a persistent cough, shortness of breath, and further symptoms. This condition is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes.

However, coughing can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, infections, smoking, acid reflux, asthma, exposure to irritants, postnasal drip, GERD, pregnancy and COPD. Identifying the underlying cause of your cough can help you find the best remedies to treat it.

Quick Home Remedies on How to Get Rid of a Cough in 5 Minutes

Coughing is a common symptom of many illnesses, including the common cold, flu, and respiratory infections. While coughing can be uncomfortable and disruptive, there are some drugs and many natural home remedies that can help soothe the throat and alleviate coughing.

Here are some of the best natural remedies to get rid of cough:

Sooth with Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great remedy for coughing. It can help soothe the throat and suppress coughing. To use, mix a tablespoon of honey with warm water or tea and drink it slowly. Note that honey should not be given to children under the age of one.

Steam

Steam is a simple and effective way to relieve coughing and soothe the respiratory system. You can create steam by boiling water in a pot or using a humidifier. Breathing in the warm, air moist can help to loosen thin mucus and phlegm, making it easier to cough up. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to the steam can also help to open up the airways and provide additional relief. Just be careful not to get too close to the steam or the hot water, as this can cause burns.

Ginger and Ginger tea

Ginger and ginger tea have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. To make ginger tea, steep sliced ginger in warm water for several minutes. Saltwater gargles can help alleviate throat irritation and reduce inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water, gargle for 30 seconds, and spit out.

Salt water gargles

A salt water gargle is a natural remedy that can help ease a sore throat and cough. To make a saltwater solution, dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water. Gargle the solution for 15 to 30 seconds before spitting it out. The salt water can help reduce swelling, remove irritants, and kill bacteria in the throat. However, it’s important to not swallow the solution and to avoid using this remedy too frequently, as it can also dry out the throat.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is a natural remedy that can help soothe a coughs and ease discomfort throat. It contains menthol, which has a cooling effect and can help relax the muscles in the throat. Peppermint can be consumed as tea or used as an essential oil. Peppermint tea can be made by steeping fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for several minutes. Peppermint essential oil can be added to a diffuser or mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the chest or throat area for relief.

ACV Apple

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy for coughs. It is believed to help soothe the throat and reduce mucus production. To use ACV, mix one tablespoon of the vinegar with a glass of warm water and honey to taste. Drink this mixture up to three times a day to help ease cough symptoms. However, it is important to note that ACV is acidic and can damage tooth enamel, so it’s recommended to rinse your mouth with water after consuming it.

Slippery Elm Tea

This is a natural remedy that can help to treat coughing and ease throat irritation. The tea is made from the inner bark of the slippery elm tree and contains mucilage, which helps to coat and protect the throat. Drinking tea can help to reduce coughing and promote healing of the throat. To make the tea, steep one teaspoon of slippery elm powder in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. You can drink up to three cups of tea per day.

Hot Bath

A hot shower can be a great way to relieve a stuffy nose. The warm steam from the water can help to loosen mucus and make it easier to breathe. You can also add some essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to the bathwater to help clear your sinuses. Additionally, taking a hot bath can promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can also help to alleviate symptoms of congestion.

Herbal Teas

This is a great natural remedy to soothe a cough. Some popular options include chamomile, peppermint, and thyme tea. Chamomile herbal tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to cough reflexes and promote relaxation. Peppermint tea has a cooling effect that can soothe sore throats and reduce coughing. Thyme tea has antiviral properties that can help fight respiratory infections. Herbal teas can also help keep you hydrated, which is important for treating a cough. Always check with a doctor before using herbal or home remedies, especially if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions.

Cough drops or lozenges

Cough drops or lozenges can be a convenient and effective way to soothe a cough. They work by coating the throat and temporarily suppressing the urge to cough. Some cough drops and lozenges contain menthol, which can also help relieve congestion. However, it’s important to choose cough drops or lozenges that are sugar-free, as sugar can actually make a cough worse. It’s also important to read the label and follow the recommended dosage.

Breathing exercises

Breathing exercises, such as a deep breaths, can help to clear the airways and reduce coughing. They can also help to increase lung capacity and improve overall and respiratory tract health. Techniques like pursed-lip breathing and belly breathing can be especially effective in managing cough and shortness of breath. Incorporating these above remedies into your routine can provide quick coughing relief. However, if your cough persists or is accompanied by further symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Fermented foods

Fermented food can be beneficial for coughing as they help promote good gut health, which in turn can help boost the immune system and thin mucus. Some examples of fermented foods include kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt, and miso. These foods contain probiotics, which are good bacteria that can help regulate the gut microbiome and support immune function. However, it’s important to note that while fermented food can have health benefits, it should not be relied upon as the sole treatment for a cough. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When to see a doctor

While most coughs are typically harmless and go away on their own, there are certain situations where it’s important to see a doctor. These include:

• Bloody mucus
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain
• High fever
• Persistent cough for more than three weeks
• Chronic cough accompanied by weight loss and fatigue
• Cough with other symptoms like severe headache, vomiting, or confusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention, from a primary care physician as soon as possible.

How do I know if my cough is serious?

If you have a cough, it’s important to pay attention to its severity and duration. In general, a cough that lasts for less than three weeks is considered acute and is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, such as the common cold symptoms.

However, if your cough lasts for more than three weeks or is accompanied by further symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, or coughing up blood, it may be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or even lung cancer. If you are concerned about your cough, it’s best to consult your doctor or a healthcare provider for an evaluation.

What should I know about COVID-19 and cough?

If you have a cough and suspect you may have COVID-19, it’s important to get tested and seek medical advice. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can cause a dry cough, along with other symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Treatments such as cough syrup, warm tea, and over-the-counter medications can help relieve coughing symptoms.

However, if you experience severe symptoms or have difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. It’s also important to practice good hygiene and social distancing measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19

Final Words

In the end, a cough can be a common and uncomfortable symptom of various respiratory illnesses. However, there are many natural and over-the-counter remedies and medications available to help soothe the body and alleviate coughing. It’s important to stay hydrated and rest as much as possible when experiencing a cough and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or prolonged. By taking care of your body and overall health and treating your cough with care, you can feel better and recover more quickly.

FAQs

Here are some frequent questions people may ask about home remedies to get rid of a cough: