Christmas is the perfect time to stack up not only on presents, but also on medicines for cough and cold. Primarily, this is because ‘tis the season for sickness to thrive in our homes and personal places – which is unfortunate but true nevertheless. But you do not have to worry for there are several ways you can stop and prevent your cough from completely consuming your holidays. Just follow these simple tips:
Daytime
The daytime is the perfect time to get active in treating your cough, as, well, you'll be awake.
- Lozenges – Sucking on lozenges or cough drops can work miracles to alleviate a scratchy or sore throat. You can get them from your local drugstore or OTC (over the counter). Hard candy can be a helpful substitute, but only if you really can't get lozenges. It can provide moisture and relieve dry cough.
- Stay Hydrated – It is a good idea for you to get enough fluids when you feel like you are sick or about to get sick. Hydration – and water – can help thin the mucus in your system. It also aids in fighting infections in your body. Aside from water, chicken soup can works wonders too.
- Green Tea– For hundreds of years, soothing drinks like tea have been considered as a cough remedy. Green tea particularly is extra soothing because it is rich in antioxidants that can help lessen symptoms of upper respiratory infection. You can also add a few drops of honey to your cup.
- Cough Suppressant and Expectorant – Both of these cough remedies can be bought OTC. Expectorant like guaifenesin can be taken to clear your mucus as well as other secretions of a productive cough, while cough suppressants contain dextromethorphan that provide temporary relief from a dry and hacking cough.
Nighttime
The tips listed below can help alleviate your cough as you (hopefully) get a good night’s rest.
- Nighttime Cough Formula – The cough formula you should be taking at night is a combination of cough suppressants, expectorants, and antihistamine. The addition of antihistamine will make you really drowsy, which is why it should be taken only when you are about to sleep. This formula will provide relief from your cough as well as get you the sleep that you need.
- Vapor Rub – Nighttime coughing can be relieved by applying vapour rub on your chest area. This is a menthol-scented balm – which your parents and grandparents probably applied on you when you were a kid – that helps clear out your nasal passages for you to be able to breathe easier. It works great on both adults and children. If you have a young child suffering from coughs, apply this to his/her chest to stop him/her coughing.
- Honey – Just like tea, honey has been used by people as a cough remedy for many years. Some studies even show that honey can work just as well as medications because it contains dextromethorphan. You can also give it to your children to lessen their nighttime coughing. But you have to be mindful not to give it to children less than 1 year old for it can cause infant botulism.
Keep these tips in mind over the holidays to hopefully help you get rid of the cough. Either way, don't let it ruin the Christmas season for you.