Fast-Acting Cough Medicines

What is Coughing?

Coughing is a natural defense mechanism of the respiratory system to clear the airways. It can occur for various reasons and usually happens when there is irritation or discomfort in the airways.

A cough lasting less than 3 weeks is classified as an acute (short-term and newly onset) cough, a cough lasting between 3-8 weeks and improving at the end of this period is classified as a subacute cough, and a cough persisting for more than 8 weeks is considered a chronic cough.

Causes of Coughing

• Respiratory Infections: Colds, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
• Allergies: Exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold in the air.
• Asthma: Asthma causes the airways to narrow and become inflamed, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
• Smoking: Smoking irritates the airways and can cause chronic coughing.
• Reflux: Acid reflux, where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, can cause coughing and throat irritation.
• Medications: Some medications, especially those used to treat high blood pressure, can cause coughing.

Coughing can sometimes be a short-term issue and may resolve on its own. However, if the cough is persistent or severe and is accompanied by additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood, it may require medical evaluation.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the cough and provide appropriate treatment.

Herbal Remedies for Cough Relief

Herbal remedies for cough relief are not curative but aim to make the patient feel better. These methods may reduce the severity of the cough but do not shorten its duration.

• Honey: A natural remedy found to be effective in alleviating cough symptoms, especially in children. It can be taken directly or added to warm herbal tea.
• Warm herbal teas can also soothe the throat.
• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or using a humidifier can help ease the airways and reduce coughing.
• Cough drops or lozenges can provide temporary relief by soothing the throat and suppressing the cough reflex.
• Adequate fluid intake: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the airways moist and can alleviate cough symptoms.
• Humidifying the air by placing a wet towel on the radiator or using a steam machine can help.
• Menthol derivatives in peppermint leaves can help break down mucus and have a cleansing effect on the respiratory tract.

Fast-Acting Cough Medicines

Some of the fastest-acting cough medicines that can be prescribed for treatment include:

• Decongestants: These medications help relieve nasal congestion and promote mucus clearance by reducing swollen nasal tissues and decreasing mucus production.
• Expectorants: These work by thinning the mucus layer, making it easier to expel, thereby easing the cough.
• Cough suppressants: For severe coughing, medications containing dextromethorphan or codeine can be used. These work by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain. However, codeine is a controlled substance and should be used under medical supervision
• Antihistamines: These can help with allergic coughs.
• Asthma medications are used if the cough is related to asthma.
• Antireflux medications are prescribed if the cough is due to acid reflux.