You had a cold, flu, or other infection and you’re finally feeling better. There’s just one problem: That annoying cough just won’t quit.
Is there anything you can do to stop it? Henry Ford Health family medicine physician Rena Daiza, M.D., shares some safe home remedies for a lingering cough.
Why Am I Coughing All the Time?
Before you try any home remedies or reach for the cough syrup, explore why that cough came on in the first place. “If you recently had a cold, the flu or COVID-19, that’s a likely cause,” says Dr. Daiza. “But if you weren’t recently sick, think about other possible reasons.”
Though it’s likely not serious, a nagging cough could be a sign of a health condition that requires treatment. Common cough causes include:
- Air pollution: “High levels of pollutants and particles in the air can make you cough,” says Dr. Daiza. “Check your local air quality and if it’s poor, avoid strenuous outdoor exercise and use an air filter if you have one."
- Allergies: Pollen, pets, dust and other allergens can cause postnasal drip and coughing. “An ongoing cough can be a symptom of allergies,” says Dr. Daiza.
- Asthma: Many people with asthma experience a persistent cough. “An asthma-related cough is often worse at night or in the morning,” Dr. Daiza says.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Also known as heartburn or acid reflux, GERD often triggers a cough in many people. “As stomach acid comes up and irritates your esophagus, it can trigger your cough reflex,” explains Dr. Daiza.
- Irritants: Exposure to fragrances, dry air, cleaning products or smoke can irritate your airways.
- Lung conditions: Bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia are a few lung conditions that can cause long-term coughing.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause coughing as a side effect. These include ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Keeping a “cough diary” can help you determine what’s causing the issue (and the best remedy to try). For example, if you experience coughing after a spicy meal, it could be a sign of GERD. Or if you’re coughing when you exercise, it could be exercise-induced asthma. “Knowing when your cough happens can provide important clues for a diagnosis,” Dr. Daiza says.
How to Treat a Cough at Home
If you’ve ruled out any medical conditions that need treatment, consider home remedies for cough relief, including:
1. Honey
Studies show honey may help kick a cough to the curb. “Swallowing a teaspoon of honey can coat the throat and calm a cough,” says Dr. Daiza.
Kids and adults can enjoy this age-old remedy, but never give honey to children under the age of one. “Honey can contain bacteria that are dangerous for babies,” says Dr. Daiza.
2. Salt water gargles
Gargling with warm salt water can do wonders for a lingering cough. “Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds,” suggests Dr. Daiza. “The salt may calm an irritated throat and clear away excess mucus that’s triggering the cough reflex.”
3. Sit by some steam
Moist air helps to loosen and thin mucus, which can help stop a cough. “A warm shower or bath can work as a steam treatment,” Dr. Daiza says. “You can also inhale steam using a bowl of hot water. Put a towel over your head and take deep breaths. Use caution to avoid burns, though, especially in children.”
4. Get a humidifier
If dry air triggers your cough, a humidifier may be a worthwhile investment. “Humidity in the air helps loosen mucus and soothe irritated airways,” Dr. Daiza says. “Humidifiers require regular cleaning, though, to avoid potentially harmful bacteria or mold.”
5. Sip warm drinks
Staying hydrated is essential, and a cup of warm tea or water can offer additional benefits when you’ve got a nagging cough. “Opt for non-caffeinated drinks like herbal tea,” says Dr. Daiza. “Add a teaspoon of honey for two remedies at once.”
If tea isn’t your thing, warm water with a squeeze of lemon or low-sodium broth can also help that hacking.
6. Be cautious with herbal remedies
Many herbal supplements claim to be a miracle cure for coughs, but there is little to no evidence that they are effective. “Herbal products don’t have the strict safety regulations of medications, so we don’t always know what’s in them,” says Dr. Daiza. “They can also interact with medications and be potentially dangerous in some cases.”
If you're considering a supplement, talk with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if it’s safe for you.
When to See Your Provider
Home remedies are great for a mild cough from a previous illness, but they’re not a substitute for medical care. Contact your provider if:
- You have other symptoms, such as a fever, shortness of breath or wheezing
- Your cough lasts longer than three weeks
- You’re coughing up blood, or you see blood in your mucus
- A lingering cough can feel like the last stubborn guest at a party that won’t leave. Fortunately, home remedies can help alleviate the discomfort.
But don’t ignore a cough that’s overstaying its welcome. You may have an underlying condition that requires medical care—which is often the most effective remedy of all.
Reviewed by Rena Daiza, M.D., a family medicine physician at Henry Ford Health who sees patients at Henry Ford Health in Bloomfield Township.
