Cough is one of the most common health conditions. It results in approximately 30 million healthcare visits every year.
When you suffer from a nagging cough, you probably try all the possible means to get rid of it. From drinking a hot soup to buying an over-the-counter cough syrup, you are willing to try anything to get rid of the annoying cough. But are these remedies truly helpful? How do you manage cough and select an effective medicine such as cough syrup for your condition?
While we understand that timely management of cough is crucial for living well, a long and persistent cough can often hamper your daily activities and reduce your quality of life. Here are certain ways by which you can manage cough effectively.
About 1.7% to 5.4% of the urban population in India suffers from cough.
DEXTROMETHORPHAN
FOR DRY COUGH
Dextromethorphan is one of the most widely used cough suppressants or antitussives.It is effective in treating dry or productive coughs. (Dry coughs or productive coughs do not produce mucus or phlegm while coughing).
Dextromethorphan is usually present in over-the-counter cough syrups, lozenges, and several cold formulas. It can also be used in combination with several other drugs, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers.
HOW DOES DEXTROMETHORPHAN
WORK IN YOUR BODY?
Dextromethorphan relieves cough by obstructing the cough reflex. The drug crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to a receptor present in the central nervous system. This results in the suppression of cough.
DIPHENHYDRAMINE
FOR ALLERGIC COUGH
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine drug. It is mainly used to relieve allergic symptoms and runny nose. It is also referred to as an antitussive or cough suppressant. It is present in various over-the-counter cough and cold medications.
HOW DOES PHENYLEPHRINE WORK IN YOUR BODY?
Phenylephrine reduces the swelling of the blood vessels in the nasal passages, thus reducing the discomfort and making it easier to breathe.
PHENYLEPHRINE FOR NASAL CONGESTION
Phenylephrine is a decongestant and is mainly used to relieve symptoms of common cold, flu, allergies, and certain respiratory disorders, such as sinusitis and bronchitis. This class of drug can provide relief from sinus congestion.
HOW DOES PHENYLEPHRINE WORK IN YOUR BODY?
Phenylephrine reduces the swelling of the blood vessels in the nasal passages, thus reducing the discomfort and making it easier to breathe.
AMMONIUM CHLORIDE FOR WET COUGH
Ammonium chloride is an expectorant. It can help clear mucus or phlegm from the airways and result in a productive or wet cough.
HOW DOES AMMONIUM CHLORIDE
WORK IN YOUR BODY?
Ammonium chloride irritates the bronchial mucosa resulting in the production of respiratory fluid. This further leads to a productive cough.
LOZENGES
Lozenges are solid cough formulations that disintegrate slowly in the mouth. They usually consist of one or more active ingredients. This class of medications has a sweet taste and may contain added flavors. These medications can relieve several symptoms, including cough and sore throat.
HOW DO LOZENGES
WORK IN YOUR BODY?
Lozenges slowly release the medication and provide temporary relief from cough and throat irritation.
WHEN TO SEEK
MEDICAL ADVICE?
Most coughs can resolve on their own and may not require clinical intervention. However, in case your cough doesn’t go away in a few weeks, or the symptoms worsen, consult your doctor immediately.
