How to Keep From Coughing

Sinuses, colds and flu often cause a tickle in the throat that can eventually turn into a nagging cough. Mucus drainage is often the reason for your irritating cough as your body fights infection by producing mucus that rests on your vocal cords. A lack of moisture in your home worsens the cough because your throat and sinuses function best in humid conditions. Fluids, humidifiers and over-the-counter cold medication all help to alleviate cold symptoms and prevent coughing fits.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter cough medicine
• Over-the-counter allergy decongestant
• Throat lozenges
• Warm-mist humidifier

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Instructions

• 1

  Moisturize the air with a warm-mist humidifier. Humidifiers are usually found on newer models of central air and heating, and work by maintaining your home's humidity level. A lack of humidity in your home dries out your nasal passages and induces coughing. Place a humidifier in each room to evenly distribute moisture. Wash out the water tank of the humidifier to prevent the growth of mold.

• 2

  Stay hydrated. Water and caffeine-free tea keep you from becoming dehydrated, prevent dry throat and reduce the build up of mucus. Add a slice of lemon, lime or cucumber to your water pitcher if the lack of flavor in water is unappealing. Mix 1 to 2 tsp. of honey to your tea to reduce dry throat and prevent an irritated throat from worsening.

• 3

  Use throat lozenges. Sugar-free throat lozenges are inexpensive and they suppress a cough. Over-the-counter cough medication helps to suppress a cough but should only be used as directed. Medication temporarily relieves symptoms but is not a cure. Visit your doctor if your cough persists after seven days.

• 4

  Elevate your head with a pillow. The elevation drains your sinuses instead of letting the mucus settle in your throat, which often occurs when lying flat.

• 5

  Avoid inhaled irritants. Smoke, cleaning products and allergens such as pet dander can cause an allergic reaction that results in wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. Reduce exposure to irritants to prevent coughing.