What can you do about cough and white mucus?

Cough and white mucus are common symptoms of respiratory infections, such as the common cold, bronchitis, and sinusitis. While they can be annoying and uncomfortable, they are usually not a sign of a serious medical condition. There are several things you can do to help relieve your cough and white mucus:

1. Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated helps to loosen mucus and make it easier to cough up. Water, juice, and soup are all good options. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and worsen your symptoms.

2. Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help to loosen mucus and soothe your irritated airways. You can use a cool-mist humidifier or vaporizer in your bedroom or other living areas.

3. Take a hot shower or bath: The steam from a hot shower or bath can help to loosen mucus and relieve congestion. You can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water for extra relief.

4. Gargle with salt water: Gargling with warm salt water can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. Mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds several times a day.

5. Use a saline nasal spray: Saline nasal sprays can help to loosen mucus and reduce congestion. You can use them several times a day as needed.

6. Take over-the-counter medications: There are a variety of over-the-counter medications that can help to relieve cough and white mucus. These include expectorants, which help to loosen mucus, and decongestants, which help to reduce congestion.

7. Rest

Getting enough rest can help your body to fight off the infection and reduce your symptoms.

If your cough and white mucus are severe or do not improve after several days, you should see a doctor. They may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to treat the underlying infection.