Cough is a reflex action that helps to clear the airway off irritants or mucous. Coughing could be discomforting especially those night persistent cough or irritating when you have to spit out those thick heavy mucus. A cough could either be a wet cough(a cough that brings out viscid mucous) or a dry cough( no mucous).
The type of cough would give a clue on the cause of cough.
Coughing could result from the usage of some medications (e.g antihypertensives like lisinopril), Asthma, infectious organisms( bacteria or virus), disease condition( Heart failure) and smoking.
Coughing resulting from medication use would resolve once the medication is stopped. Proper management of asthma would also help reduce the coughing as a result of an asthma attack. Antibiotics are included in the treatment when it is caused by bacteria.
Wet coughs are better managed using an expectorant that would help reduce the viscosity of the mucous and make it easier for people to cough it out. Examples of expectorants are Ammonium chloride, bromhexine, balsam of Tolu, carbocisteine,e.t.c.
Cough center suppressants are better used to suppress dry cough since there is no mucous present in this type of cough. Opioids like codeine, nonopioids like Dextromethorphan, antihistamines like chlorpheniramine are used as suppressants.
Some health tips
*Wash your hand frequently using soap and water.
*When you have a cough, cover your mouth to prevent cough droplets from expelling out and contaminating the environment.
*Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.
*Fruits and vegetables would be encouraged as this would help build your immunity and keep you healthy.
pharmMind 