Cough with catarrh: what to do?

Expert answer:

In case of persistent catarrh cough, which lasts more than 3 weeks, a doctor should be sought. Treatment may include remedies antibiotics and anti-inflammatory, depending on the cause of the cough.

Syrups that inhibit cough (antitussives) should not be used, because the phlegm will not be expelled.

Already the syrups expectorants leave the phlegm more liquid and facilitate its expulsion, preventing obstruction of the airways, eliminating infected secretion and accelerating healing, as long as associated with antibiotics.

However, cough syrups may contain anti-histaminic (antiallergic), decongestant and anti-inflammatory formulas that may Side effects unwanted and even lead to death. Some of these effects include:

  • Somnolence;
  • Increased heart rate ("shakers");
  • Agitation;
  • Cardiac arrhythmia.

It is also important to note that syrups do not treat the cause of cough as well as cough drops.

Cough with green phlegm or yellow is usually caused by an infection of the airways, such as colds or more serious illnesses, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis.

Phlegm elimination is important to improve the infectious process and prevent new infections. It is worth remembering that cough is a body defense mechanism to eliminate secretion (phlegm), foreign bodies and infectious agents of the airways.

Is there any syrup or home remedy for cough with catarrh?

It is known that the honey has properties that dilate the bronchi and decrease the irritation of the throat, in addition to seranti-inflammatory. Hence, it is considered a good home remedy for coughing.

The indicated dose is 1 tablespoon (adults) or 1 tablespoon of dessert (children) of honey, before bed.

Another natural product that may aid in the treatment of cough is ginger, because it has gingerol, a substance with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action. Here's how to make homemade cough syrup with ginger:

Ingredients:

  • 5 cinnamon sticks;
  • 1 peeled lemon (do not throw away the peel, which will also be used);
  • 1 clove of garlic;
  • 1 cup (ginger) of cut ginger;
  • 1 cup (tea) of crystal sugar.

How to make:

  1. Put the sugar in a pan and bring to the fire to make a syrup;
  2. Add the ginger and leave the mixture on the fire for 20 minutes;
  3. Add the lemon;
  4. When boiling, add the cinnamon, lemon peel and garlic;
  5. If the syrup is very thick, add half a glass of water;
  6. Turn off the heat and let it stand for 30 minutes.

How to take: Drink half a cup (coffee) of hot homemade syrup per day.

THE fluid intake and the inhalation with saline or inhalation of hot water vapor also alleviate the symptoms of cough with catarrh, as they thin the airways and favor the elimination of secretion.

Cases of catarrh cough that last more than 3 weeks should be evaluated by a doctor so that what is causing the cough is detected and the cause is properly treated and not the symptom.