Do you feel a coughing fit coming on?
The first thing you should do is contact your doctor. It never hurts to be on the safe side, as simple coughing could be the beginning of a more serious respiratory illness.
You may experience coughing at the onset of a common cold or flu.
Is there a difference between coughs? If so, what do they mean? Are some coughs more serious than others?
Let’s break down the various types of coughs you may experience in your life.
Table of Contents
The Dry Cough
Dry coughing is the most common type of cough.
This cough is typically a reaction to the following causes:
- Seasonal allergies
- Dust
- Dry throat
- Inhalation of smoke
If you find yourself continuously clearing your throat, you may want to see an allergy specialist. The problem may be related to anxiety or stress, as well.
Since dry cough is the least severe, an over-the-counter throat lozenge may do the trick. However, if the cough persists, you should see your doctor about bronchitis.
Wet Coughs
On the flip side of dry coughing, you have wet coughs. These types of coughs produce mucus. They may also be accompanied by a stuffy nose or sore throat.
Wet coughs are also caused by viral infection. Your best course of action is to visit your doctor who may suggest an over-the-counter cough syrup.
A persistent cough may be the start of a worsening condition, like heart failure. Health sources like heartfailurematters.org also break down various coughing signs to watch.
Coughing Fits
Have you ever found yourself in an uncontrollable “coughing fit?”
These experiences, also known as paroxysmal coughing, can seemingly come out of nowhere during spring allergy season. You may also experience them during the flu.
Whooping cough is an example of a coughing fit. It can also feel worse at night, with patients experiencing deep pain when inhaling. This cough also comes with a distinct, resonating “whoop” sound.
This cough typically requires an office visit and an antibiotics prescription. Talk to your doctor about supplementing your treatment with turmeric, vitamin c, and ginger tea.
Easy At-Home Remedies for Different Types of Coughs
If your doctor gives you the okay, go ahead and try different home remedies for coughs.
The best teas for coughs include:
- Peppermint
- Marshmallow root
- Lemon ginger
- Green tea
- Chamomile
Stir in some honey for extra healing. You can also gargle with warm salt water in lieu of tea.
Any warm or hot liquid is good, including soups and broths. It breaks up mucus and soothes the throat from soreness and coughing.
Another simple remedy is steam. Fill a stainless steel bowl with boiling water. Place cheesecloth over the bowl. Then, place a towel over your head while breathing in the steam.
Over-the-counter ibuprofen also relieves inflammation. Reducing inflammation is key to treating coughs.
Treat Your Harsh Cough Before It Gets Worse
Don’t wait before your dry or wet cough turns into something serious. Understand the symptoms of various types of coughs and take action!
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