As if a runny nose, fever, or even a migraine wasn’t bad enough during this cold/flu/allergy/pandemic season, in most cases, sufferers experience a restless, dry cough – one that can keep you up at night! So, what can you do? Here are 5 simple home remedies to get rid of a cough that doesn't want to go away.
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Push the fluids.
When your body is fighting cold-related symptoms such as a fever, it loses more water than usual.
Step your fluid game up to both coat your throat and prevent dehydration.
Tip: Opt for oral rehydration solutions consisting of a mixture of water and salt that helps replenish necessary fluids and electrolytes.
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Try a spoonful of honey.
Studies show that honey is better than cough medicine for relieving a restless cough.
Even better? It’s gentle enough for kids. “In a comparison of honey, DM, and no treatment, parents rated honey most favorably for symptomatic relief of their child's nocturnal cough and sleep difficulty due to upper respiratory tract infection.
Honey may be a preferable treatment for the cough and sleep difficulty associated with childhood upper respiratory tract infection,” according to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health.
Tip: For children ages 1 to 5 give half a teaspoon. Meanwhile, ages 6 to 11 can consume one teaspoon. But never give honey to babies younger than 1; they can get botulism, a rare poisoning caused by toxins from bacteria typically found in honey.
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Moisten the air.
Try a cool-mist humidifier, which can add moisture to the air, easing coughing and congestion due to a cold. Because bacteria and mold grow quickly, follow the manufacturer's instructions and be sure to change the water daily and thoroughly clean the unit.
Tip: Keep out of reach of children. Hot water or steam from a warm-mist humidifier can burn a child if he or she gets too close.
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Wipe down and clean up.
Viruses can live for up to two hours – oftentimes months -- on frequently touched areas and objects. Think countertops, the remote control, towels, doorknobs and handles.
So, disinfect frequently with bleach, antibacterial wipes, even a disinfectant spray such as Lysol. Because manners matter, sneeze and cough into the crook of your elbow, not your hands. This reduces the risk of passing on revolting germs.
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Wash hands frequently.
Practically 80 percent of infectious diseases, including the common cold, are spread through touch.
So, it's crucial that you practice good hygiene. In other words, always wash your hands!
Lather up with antibacterial soap and vigorously rub your hands together for 20 seconds. Make sure to rub the wrists, between the fingers, and under the fingernails. On-the-go? Reach for alcohol-based hand wipes or sanitizers.
