Cough:
1) A cough is only a symptom, not the problem.
2) Coughing clears the lungs and airways.
Symptoms:
There are three kinds of coughs:
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Productive - This brings up mucus of phlegm
Nonproductive - This is a dry cough
Reflex - This is a cough that comes from a problem somewhere else, like the
ear or stomach
Causes:
Common causes of coughing are:
Tobacco Smoke
Dry Air
Infections. Examples are bronchitis, colds, and the flu
Allergies and postnasal drip
Asthma
Acid reflux from the stomach that comes with heartburn
Something lodged in your windpipe
Symptom of medical conditions. Example: tuberculosis
Prevention:
Avoid close contact with anyone with upper-respiratory illnesses
Wash hands regurlarly
Don't share drinking glasses or eating utensils
Replace your toothbrush after an illness and/or every two months
Self-care:
For Coughs that bring up mucus:
Don't smoke; avoid secondhand smoke
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, hot tea, and fruit juices. These help loosen mucus and soothe a sore throat.
Use a cool-mist vaporizer in your room
Take a shower. The steam can thin the mucus
Take an over-the-counter expectorant or cough medicine containing guaifenesin
For Coughs that Are Dry:
Drink liquids. Drink tea with lemon and honey
Suck on cough drops or hard candy
Take an over-the-counter cough medicine that contains dextromenthorphan as directed
Treatment:
Diagnostic tests may include a chest x-ray. Antibiotics may be
prescribed to fight an infection. If they are prescribed, be sure to
take the entire antibiotic you are given.
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