How to Get Rid of a Cough Fast
When you’re out in a crowded space, it can be especially annoying to feel a coughing fit coming on. Fortunately, it can be easy to find quick relief. Learn how you can get rid of a cough fast with these tips.
Differences Between a Wet and Dry Cough
A cough that comes on quickly can throw a wrench into your daily plans. You might encounter irritants in the air such as dust, fumes or vapors, which can cause a dry cough.1 Or your body might be trying to clear mucus out of your airways—known as a wet cough.1 Occasional coughing is normal as it can help clear your throat and airway of these irritants.1 However, continuous coughing can be the sign of a more serious medical issue, especially when it’s coupled with other symptoms such as shortness of breath or blood in your cough.1
Strategies for Quick Cough Relief
While it is strongly recommended to stay home when sick, it is understood that sometimes going out in public is unavoidable. If it becomes necessary to be in public while unwell, here are some tips help relieve your cough and to help stop the spread of germs and keep others healthy:
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.2 Warm fluids such as chicken broth or tea can feel soothing and may help loosen congestion.2 Honey and lemon in your tea or water can help with hydration, and can help calm an irritated throat.2 However, it’s best to avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can work to dehydrate you instead.2
Wear a mask
A face mask is effective in preventing respiratory droplets from going into the open air, where it can potentially get others sick.3 Face masks are a great choice when you might feel like you’re about to cough or sneeze often; it can be convenient to carry a few packs while traveling.3
Learn to cough correctly
Practicing appropriate cough etiquette can help prevent the spread of serious illnesses.3 Instead of merely coughing into your hand, you can help avoid spreading germs by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue, then disposing of it in the trash.4 If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow.4 Avoid coughing into the air, which can spread germs into the air up to six feet in front of you.3
Take cough medication
If you feel an illness coming on, there are plenty of multi-symptom remedies that you can take when you’re recovering at home. Soft Chewables such as Robitussin Soft Chews Nighttime DM can provide long-lasting multi-symptom relief from coughs, runny nose, and sneezing overnight, all in a convenient berry-tasting chewable.
In addition, when you’re out of the house or on-the-go, a convenient cough solution like Robitussin Soft Chews Long-Acting Cough can provide long-lasting relief—up to 8 hours. See more tips on how to stay healthy and avoid the spread of germs and illnesses, such as when you’re traveling
Sources:
- Learn About Cough. American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/warning-signs-of-lung-disease/cough/learn-about-cough/. Accessed 7/24/2024.
- 7 ways to combat coughs, colds. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/7-ways-to-combat-coughs-and-colds/. Accessed 7/24/2024.
- Cough Etiquette: Why It’s So Important. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-etiquette-why-its-so-important/. Accessed 7/24/2024.
- Healthy Habits: Coughing and Sneezing. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/coughing-and-sneezing.html/. Accessed 7/24/2024.
