Coughing is the way our body gets rid of something that is irritating the throat or airways (respiratory tract). It is part of the body’s normal defence mechanism.
Coughs can be described as ‘wet’ or ‘dry’. A wet cough means mucus (phlegm) is released from the chest after the coughing, and the chest may sound congested. The body will cough repeatedly trying to rid itself of the mucus that builds up in the airways. A dry cough does not produce mucus after coughing. Some virus infections cause dry coughs that may last up to 8 weeks after the infection is cleared. If you cough too frequently or intensely, the chest muscles can feel sore and the voice become hoarse. You may have a headache, difficulty sleeping, or even cause damage to the blood vessels in your throat.
Coughing can be caused by:
Here are some things you can do to help:
Coughing causes saliva droplets to become airborne and spread respiratory diseases. Follow good hygiene and:
Always inform pharmacy staff if you are taking any other medicines, or if you have any other health conditions, because some over-the-counter medicines may not be suitable for you. The best treatment for a cough depends on what the cause is and the type of cough. There are medicines from the pharmacy that can help relieve coughing caused by viruses or allergies.
Some cough mixtures can contain more than one type of active ingredient so always check with your pharmacist, as they might affect some medical conditions or interfere with your other medicines. Other symptoms of a cold or flu, such as headache, fever or ache and pain can be helped by other pharmacy medicines (see Colds and Flu Health Information Brochure). Cough and cold medicines should not be used in children younger than 6 years old, instead use the lifestyle options or saline (salt water) nasal drops. For children aged 6–12 years old, talk to your pharmacist or doctor before giving them any cough or cold medicines. Ask your pharmacist for advice on the most suitable treatment.
Babies and very young children (under 5 of age) with a cough should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.
Health Direct: www.healthdirect.gov.au
NPS Medicinewise: www.nps.org.au
Disclaimer: The information provided is a guide only, is current at time of publishing, and is not intended to replace the advice of your pharmacist or doctor.
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