Chronic cough how to deal with it?
Constant coughing can be bothersome, annoying and negatively affect our daily functioning. Chronic cough, defined as coughing that persists for more than eight weeks, can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as asthma, COPD, gastroesophageal reflux and even cancer. If you are struggling with this problem, there are a number of ways that can help you alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. In this article, you will learn how to deal with chronic cough.
1. Medical consultation
The first step to take if you have a chronic cough is to consult a doctor. There are many possible causes of this symptom, so it is important to make a correct diagnosis and implement appropriate treatment. Your doctor will take a medical history, perform a physical examination, and in some cases may order additional tests, such as spirometry, blood tests or chest X-rays.
Remember: Don't ignore chronic cough. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your quality of life.
2. Avoid irritants
If you suffer from chronic cough, avoid irritants that can exacerbate your symptoms. Effective measures may include limiting exposure to tobacco smoke, avoiding airborne allergens such as pollen, dust or odors, and practicing respiratory hygiene by regularly washing your nose with saline or using humidifiers.
One of the most important steps in the fight against chronic cough is quitting smoking. Often smokers experience morning cough, which can persist for a long time after quitting. It is also important to avoid smog, campfire smoke, aerosols or irritants in the workplace or home.
3. Use of cough suppressants and decongestants
If you have a chronic cough, your doctor may prescribe cough suppressants or diastolic medications to help relieve mild symptoms. Antitussives reduce the cough reflex, while diastolic medications reduce airway spasms, facilitating the free flow of air. Remember to always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any drug therapy.
4. Rehabilitation
In some cases, patients with chronic cough are recommended to participate in rehabilitation programs. Respiratory rehabilitation, so-called physical therapy, focuses on strengthening respiratory muscles and improving lung function through the use of various breathing techniques, chest massage or exercise. It is worth consulting a specialist to select the right exercises and therapy for your needs.
5. Proper diet and hydration
We all know how important proper nutrition and hydration are to the overall health of the body. If you have a chronic cough, it's a good idea to rely on foods rich in vitamin C, pineapple, honey or herbs such as thyme or sage, which have properties that soothe irritation of the respiratory tract. Also remember to drink enough fluids, preferably in the form of pure water, to keep your body hydrated.
Summary
A chronic cough does not have to limit your life. Remember that your doctor is the person who can provide you with the necessary help and guidance. Avoid irritants, take prescribed medications, attend rehabilitation, and take care of your diet and hydration. And don't forget to make regular follow-up visits to your doctor to monitor your progress. By taking the right steps, you can significantly alleviate the symptoms of chronic cough and regain the comfort of your life.