How to Soothe Different Types of Cough

Coughing is a common symptom that can be caused by a range of factors, from viral infections to allergies or throat irritation. Although it is often bothersome, coughing is the body's natural way of clearing irritants from the airways. In today's post, we talk about the most common symptoms and how to relieve them quickly and effectively. Keep reading!

Types of cough and common symptoms

1. Dry cough

A dry cough is one that does not produce phlegm or mucus. It is usually caused by throat irritation, contact with allergens or viral infections such as the common cold or flu. It is often described as a persistent, non-productive cough. The most common symptoms include:

• Throat irritation or a tickly throat.
• Repeated coughing, especially at night.
• Difficulty sleeping due to constant coughing.

2. Productive cough

A productive cough, on the other hand, is accompanied by the expulsion of mucus or phlegm. It is common in respiratory infections such as bronchitis or in cases of advanced colds. Symptoms include:

• Coughing up phlegm or mucus, which may vary in colour (white, yellow or green, depending on the infection).
• A feeling of chest congestion.
• A "wet" sound when coughing.

3. Chronic cough

In the case of a chronic cough, it is a persistent cough that lasts for more than eight weeks. It may be the result of more serious conditions such as gastro-oesophageal reflux, asthma or lung infections. The symptoms of a chronic cough vary, but often include:

• A cough that lasts for months.
• A cough accompanied by chest pain or fatigue.
• In some cases, shortness of breath or wheezing.

4. Allergic cough

This type of cough is triggered by exposure to allergens such as dust, pollen or pet dander. Symptoms usually appear alongside other signs of allergy, such as:

• Frequent sneezing.
• Nasal congestion.
• Itching in the throat or eyes.

Tips to soothe different types of cough

1. Keep the air moist

Dry air can irritate the airways and make a cough worse. Using a humidifier at home or in the bedroom, especially at night, can help reduce throat irritation and soothe coughing.

2. Drink warm fluids

Herbal infusions, broths and teas can soothe an irritated throat and loosen mucus in cases of a productive cough. Warm water with honey and lemon is a very effective home remedy, as honey has antibacterial properties and can reduce irritation.

3. Avoid irritants

If the cough is caused by allergies or irritants in the air, such as cigarette smoke or dust, it is essential to avoid exposure to these triggers. Keep the air in your home clean and, if possible, use air purifiers.

4. Use extra pillows when sleeping

If the cough gets worse during the night, raising your head with pillows can help prevent postnasal drip and reduce coughing.

Recommended products to soothe a cough

• Grintuss Adult Jarabe: This natural syrup uses ingredients such as honey and plant extracts to soothe a dry, irritating cough. It forms a protective film in the throat, relieving irritation and providing a barrier against external agents. It also helps keep the mucous membranes hydrated, which helps reduce coughing. Grintuss Adult Jarabe is ideal for those looking for a natural treatment, without side effects, for a dry or irritating cough, and it is suitable for both adults and children over 12 years old.
• Bion3 Defense: is a supplement that combines probiotics, vitamins and minerals to strengthen the immune system, helping to prevent respiratory infections that could cause coughing. By improving the body's defences, Bion3 Defense, available in gummies and tablets, helps reduce the frequency of colds and flu, which are the main causes of coughs in many people.
• Pranarôm Spray Garganta: formulated with essential oils that relieve throat irritation, one of the main triggers of a dry cough, it soothes a sore throat and helps reduce inflammation, making breathing easier and reducing the frequency of coughing. Pranarôm spray garganta is a very good option for those looking for quick, natural relief from a dry cough, especially if it is caused by irritation or mild infections.
• Cold and flu medicines: Active ingredients such as chlorphenamine or paracetamol not only help soothe a cough, but also relieve other common symptoms, such as nasal congestion, headache and fever. On the Farmaciasdirect website we can find treatments formulated with these active ingredients such as Frenadol Descongestivo, Frenadol Forte, Frenadol Forte Granulado and Frenadol Junior, for little ones, to treat productive and dry coughs associated with colds and flu.
• Medicines for sore and irritated throats: antiseptics such as amylmetacresol, also known by the initials AMC, act against infections in the mouth and throat thanks to their soothing effect and antiseptic action. We can find it in Strepsils lozenges, available in different flavours such as honey and lemon, mint, orange or strawberry, among others. They are all available on the Farmaciasdirect website.