COUGH

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR COUGH

  1. Mild Coughs: Use cough drops.
  2. Cough Medications: In cough and cold medications, there is either a "cough suppressant" to reduce the cough or a "cough expectorant" to thin thick phlegm. Some medications contain both a cough suppressant and an expectorant. Generally, medications containing a cough suppressant should be avoided if you are coughing up phlegm.
  3. Cough Suppression Medications: The most common cough suppressant in over the counter cough medications is dextromethorphan. An example is Robitussin DM. Do not try to suppress coughs that produce mucus and phlegm. Dextromethorphan is best used in the late stages of a respiratory infection when the cough is dry and hacking.
  4. Cough Expectorant Medications: To loosen and cough up thick phlegm, try using a cough medication that contains guaifenesin (e.g. plain Robitussin).
  5. Coughing Spasms: Drink warm fluids. Inhale warm mist.  (Reason: both relax the airway and loosen up the phlegm) Suck on cough drops or hard candy to coat the irritated throat.
  6. Hydration: Drink plenty of liquids (6-8 glasses of water daily). If the air in your home is dry, use a humidifier
  7. Avoid Tobacco Smoke: Smoking or being exposed to smoke makes coughs much worse.
  8. Fever Relief: For fever relief, take acetaminophen every 4-6 hours (Adults 650 mg) OR ibuprofen every 6-8 hours (Adults 400 mg).
    • Do not take ibuprofen if you have stomach problems, kidney disease, are pregnant, or have been told by your doctor to avoid this type of anti-inflammatory drug. Do not take ibuprofen for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
    • Do not take acetaminophen if you have liver disease.
    • Read the package instructions thoroughly on all medications that you take.
  9. Expected Course: Viral bronchitis causes a cough that lasts 1 to 3 weeks.  Sometimes you may cough up lots of phlegm (sputum, mucus). The mucus can normally be white, gray, yellow or green.
  10. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Cough lasts more than 3 weeks
    • You become worse or develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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