Introduction
Cough and phlegm are common symptoms of respiratory illnesses, affecting people of all ages. While they can be annoying and uncomfortable, they are usually not serious and will clear up within a few days. However, if your cough and phlegm are severe or persistent, they can indicate a more serious underlying condition.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 50 million people in the United States experience persistent cough each year. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that acute respiratory infections, which often include cough and phlegm, cause 4.25 million deaths worldwide annually.
Causes of Cough & Phlegm
Coughing is a natural reflex that helps to clear the throat and lungs of irritants and mucus. Phlegm, or mucus, is a thick, sticky fluid that is produced by the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. It helps to trap and remove foreign particles, such as bacteria and viruses.
Cough and phlegm can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Common cold (also called viral rhinitis): Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nose’s mucous membranes which can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens.
- Influenza (also called flu): The flu is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses.
- Bronchitis: This is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the main air passages in the lungs.
- Pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue.
- Sinusitis: This is an inflammation of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces in the skull.
- Allergies such as hay fever and pet allergies.
- Smoke and other air pollutants.
- Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers.
Symptoms of Cough & Phlegm
The symptoms of cough and phlegm can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:
- Coughing (dry or productive)
- Phlegm (clear, white, yellow, or green)
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, cough and phlegm will clear up within a few days or weeks. However, you should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Cough that lasts longer than 2 weeks
- Cough that is severe or persistent
- Cough that produces bloody or green mucus
- Cough that is accompanied by fever, chills, or body aches
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chest pain
- Difficulty sleeping
How to Cure Cough & Phlegm
There is no one-size-fits-all cure for cough and phlegm. The best treatment will depend on the underlying cause. However, there are a number of things you can do to relieve your symptoms and speed up the healing process.
1. Honey
Honey is a natural cough suppressant and expectorant. It can help to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. One study found that honey was as effective as dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant, in reducing cough severity.
To use honey for cough and phlegm, take 1-2 teaspoons of honey as needed. You can also add honey to tea or warm water.
2. Hot liquid
Hot liquids, such as tea, soup, or hot water, can help to soothe the throat and thin mucus. This can make it easier to cough up phlegm.
3. Steam
Steam can help to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. You can create steam by boiling water and placing it in a bowl or humidifier. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 10-12 minutes.
4. Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines
OTC cough and cold medicines can help to relieve your symptoms. However, it is important to read the labels carefully and follow the directions for use. Some OTC cough and cold medicines may not be suitable for children or people with certain health conditions.
5. Prescription cough and cold medicines
If OTC cough and cold medicines do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. Prescription cough and cold medicines may contain expectorants, which help to thin mucus, or cough suppressants, which help to stop coughing.
6. Rest
Rest is important for the body to heal. When you are sick, try to get plenty of rest so that your immune system can fight off the infection.
How to Prevent Cough & Phlegm
There are a number of things you can do to prevent cough and phlegm, including:
- Wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading germs.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Get vaccinated against the flu and other respiratory illnesses.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a cough and a cold?
A: A cough is a symptom of a respiratory infection, such as the common cold or flu. A cold is a mild respiratory infection that is caused by a virus. Symptoms of a cold include cough, runny nose, sore throat, and sneezing.
Q: How long does a cough usually last?
A: A cough usually lasts for 1-2 weeks. However, some coughs may last longer, especially if they are caused by an underlying medical condition.
Q: When should I see a doctor for a cough?
A: You should see a doctor if your cough lasts longer than 2 weeks, if it is severe or persistent, or if you have any other symptoms, such as fever, chills, or body aches.
Q: How can I prevent a cough?
A: You can prevent a cough by washing your hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people, getting vaccinated against the flu and other respiratory illnesses, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Q: What are some natural remedies for a cough?
A: Some natural remedies for a cough include honey, hot liquid, steam, and over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines.
Q: What are some prescription medications for a cough?
A: Some prescription medications for a cough include expectorants and cough suppressants.
Conclusion
Cough and phlegm are common symptoms of respiratory illnesses. While they can be annoying and uncomfortable, they are usually not serious and will clear up within a few days. However, if your cough and phlegm are severe or persistent, they can indicate a more serious underlying condition. There are a number of things you can do to relieve your symptoms and speed up the healing process, including honey, hot liquid, steam, OTC cough and cold medicines, and prescription cough and cold medicines.
Tables:
Table 1: Common Causes of Cough & Phlegm
| Cause | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Common cold | Cough, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing | Rest, over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines |
| Influenza (flu) | Cough, fever, chills, body aches, fatigue | Rest, OTC cough and cold medicines, prescription antiviral medications |
| Bronchitis | Cough, wheezing, chest pain | Rest, OTC cough and cold medicines, prescription antibiotics |
| Pneumonia | Cough, fever, chills, body aches, shortness of breath | Hospitalization, antibiotics, oxygen therapy |
| Sinusitis | Cough, runny nose, facial pain, headache | Rest, OTC cough and cold medicines, prescription antibiotics |
| Allergies | Cough, sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes | Avoid triggers, OTC allergy medicines, prescription allergy medicines |
| Smoke | Cough, wheezing, chest pain | Quit smoking, avoid secondhand smoke, OTC cough and cold medicines |
| Certain medications | Cough, dry mouth, constipation | Talk to your doctor about changing medications, OTC cough and cold medicines |
Table 2: OTC Cough & Cold Medicines
| Ingredient | Brand | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Dextromethorphan | Robitussin | 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours |
| Guaifenesin | Mucinex | 200-400 mg every 12 hours |
| Phenylephrine | Sudafed | 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours |
| Pseudoephedrine | Claritin-D | 30-60 mg every 12 hours |
Table 3: Prescription Cough & Cold Medicines
| Ingredient | Brand | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Codeine | Tylenol with Codeine | 15-30 mg every 4-6 hours |
| Hydrocodone | Vicodin | 5-10 mg every 4-6 hours |
| Oxycodone | Percocet | 5-10 mg every 4-6 hours |
Table 4. How to Cure Cough and Phlegm if You Are Flying
| Symptom | Cause | Treatment
