If coughing has become part of your daily routine, you probably sense something isn’t right. But how do you figure out whether it’s a cough from an allergy or illness like a respiratory infection? Don’t worry — in this article we’ll take a thorough look at airway irritation and share what actually helps with that annoying cough.
What is a cough, exactly?
A cough is essentially a defence mechanism your body uses to clear foreign particles from the airways. This inborn reflex works to loosen and expel unwanted substances so you can breathe freely again.
It affects people of all ages. Let’s be honest — most of us don’t pay much attention to what’s causing a cough. But if you keep ignoring it, you could be opening the door to far more serious health problems.
Types of cough
There are generally two types of cough, and each requires a different approach to treatment:
- Dry cough – A dry, irritating cough produces no mucus. It often comes in bouts that are difficult to stop.
- Wet (productive) cough – A wet cough involves mucus production. As you cough up phlegm, harmful particles are expelled along with it. Quite often, a wet cough develops after an initial dry cough.
Causes of cough: Why does it develop?
There are several possible causes of a cough — including some you may be knowingly exposing yourself to. Here are the main ones:
- Viruses and bacteria – Viruses and bacteria are behind the majority of respiratory infections, which irritate the airways and trigger coughing. They cluster in thick mucus that is neither easy nor pleasant to cough up.
- Allergies – Airway irritation can also be linked to an allergic reaction. Coughing is most commonly triggered by contact with pollen, dust, or pet dander. A dry allergic cough is often accompanied by a runny nose and itchy eyes.
- Smoking – Smokers are usually well aware of what’s behind their cough. Regularly inhaling tobacco smoke irritates the airways. Unfortunately, passive smokers — people who don’t smoke but live with someone who does — are affected in much the same way.
- Air pollution – Polluted air and vehicle emissions aren’t kind to our bodies either. In more sensitive individuals, the body responds with coughing.
A long-lasting or chronic cough may also result from a congenital defect of the airways. Treating this requires medical attention. If you suspect your cough has no identifiable cause from the list above, or if your symptoms start getting worse, don’t hesitate to see a doctor.
You might also like: How do I know if I have an allergy?
How to get rid of a cough
The first step is always to identify the cause. If you want to rule out an allergic cough, try a home allergy test. You’ll get your result within 10 minutes with 97% accuracy. The test is straightforward — just follow the instructions in the leaflet.
Once you know the cause, it’s always worth discussing treatment with a doctor. But if you’d rather try a few things on your own first, here are some tips that can help regardless of what’s behind the cough.
One of the best remedies for a cough is staying well hydrated. Only a properly hydrated body can fight off the viruses attacking it. Water, tea, or a hearty broth will also soothe an irritated throat and bring noticeable relief.
Closely related to hydration is indoor humidity. Make sure to humidify your bedroom and any room where you spend the most time. This prevents your mucous membranes from drying out. Before switching on a humidifier, don’t forget to ventilate the room thoroughly first.
TIP: How to choose the best humidifier
A nasal rinse can also help fight a dry, irritating cough. While the problem may feel like it’s in your throat, your nasal mucosa has a significant impact on cough intensity. Using a rinse pot and a saline solution designed for nasal irrigation will cleanse and strengthen the lining.
The final step is getting enough quality sleep. If coughing fits at night are keeping you awake, they’re often caused by lying flat. Try propping your head up with an extra pillow. You might also consider washing your bedding or investing in new, anti-dust-mite bedding. Dust mites are a common culprit behind night-time coughing.
You might also like: How to improve your sleep.
Cough prevention
Prevention is always better than cure. If you suffer from allergies, do your best to avoid allergens as much as possible. How? At home, air purifiers are a great help — they remove not only allergens but also viruses and bacteria.
When you’re outdoors, in a polluted environment, or during high pollen counts, don’t be afraid to reach for respirators, face masks, or scarves. You can choose them by design, who they’re intended for, or even the season. For example, summer scarves are made from thin, breathable material so you stay cool and can still breathe comfortably.
Another way to prevent coughing is with anti-dust-mite bedding. Dust mites can’t live or reproduce in it, so it helps ensure uninterrupted, cough-free sleep. You can choose more affordable options like duvet covers and encasings, or go for pillows and duvets that cost a bit more but offer stronger protection.
Don’t forget about regular nasal rinses, exercise, and a healthy diet. Combine foods rich in vitamins and minerals with supplements that support your body’s natural immune defences. Try to cut down on smoking, too.
Read our 12 tips to boost your immunity.
Frequently asked questions
I have a cough — what helps?
Plenty of fluids is key — they soothe an irritated throat. Dry mucous membranes are also affected by room humidity, which you can regulate with a humidifier. Rinse your nose with a saline solution designed for nasal irrigation, and don’t forget to switch your bedding to anti-dust-mite bedding.
Why is coughing worse at night?
Coughing often gets worse at night because of lying in a horizontal position. Try propping your head up with an extra or larger pillow. You may also want to switch your bedding to anti-dust-mite bedding.
How to stop a coughing fit?
The most important thing is to identify the cause and address it. Make sure you’re drinking enough fluids and that room humidity is at the right level — humidifiers can help with that. Complement these steps with a nasal rinse and anti-dust-mite bedding. If the cough still doesn’t improve, be sure to see your doctor.
How long does a cough last?
The duration depends on the underlying cause. A cough caused by viruses and bacteria typically lasts 1–3 weeks. If your cough persists for longer, it may signal a more serious problem, and you should definitely seek medical advice.
When is a cough contagious?
If viruses or bacteria are causing the cough, it’s usually most contagious during the early stages, when the pathogens are being released from the airways into the surrounding environment.
