Spasmodic Dry Cough Remedies

Coughing is one of the natural ways your body tries to remove an irritant from the throat, lungs or air passages. Dry, spasmodic coughs can be particularly irritating because the lack of mucus present creates a hacking cough that can be physically tiring. Having a few spasmodic dry cough remedies handy can help soothe this symptomatic cough while you get to the bottom of the underlying cause with the help of your doctor.

Controlling Environmental Factors

• Dry coughs can be trickier to treat because they can be caused by a variety of factors including cigarette smoke, weather changes, dust, allergens, asthma, viral illness like colds, and even prescription medications. You have the power to control several environmental factors that contribute to a spasmodic, dry cough. For instance, stop smoking or remove yourself from continuous exposure to second-hand smoke.

  When your coughing is sparked by weather changes, adjust the climate inside your home or office. Often, the indoors can be warm and dry, a direct contrast to the sometimes humid outdoors. Purchasing a humidifier can help. Installing hypoallergenic air filters on your HVAC system can cut down on the dust and allergens inside.

Managing Personal Factors

• Check the side effects of any prescription medication you are taking. Sometimes, a spasmodic dry cough is a side effect that can be prevented by changing the dosage or type of medication. Hydration is important to alleviating a spasmodic dry cough. Carry a bottle of water with you and sip it throughout the day to keep your throat wet and lubricated. Soak in a hot tub, take a hot shower or sit in a sauna. Breathing in steam is beneficial for dry coughs because it soothes your throat and respiratory passageways. Elevating your head with an extra pillow at night can ease your cough as well.

Over-the-Counter Medications and Alternate Remedies

• An over-the-counter cough suppressant can be effective for a spasmodic dry cough for the short term. However, if you have an underlying recurrent condition such as asthma or allergies, natural spasmodic dry cough remedies may be the best choice, especially for long-term use. For instance, honey is an effective remedy for people over the age of one because of its thick, soothing properties. It can be mixed with warm milk or tea or even taken by the spoonful, depending on your preferred method.

  Chicken soup is an effective calming remedy for a spasmodic dry cough as it has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Peppermint or eucalyptus lozenges are a balm for an irritated throat thanks to their cooling menthol qualities. Add the essential oils of peppermint, eucalyptus, citrus or rosemary to a vaporizer and breathe in the moisturized vapor steam for relief.

  Thyme, ginger, sundew and anise are herbal remedies that have anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory characteristics. You can drink these herbs in a tea or purchase natural herbal cough syrups containing these ingredients. Apple cider vinegar has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Mixing some in a glass of water or even with a spoonful of honey can also soothe a throat irritated by coughing. Combining several spasmodic dry cough remedies will boost your chances of alleviating your coughing symptoms.