Among many of the body's defense mechanisms, coughing is the most common and the frequent reaction of the body. It clears out irritants, mucus or any kind of germs which get blocked in the airways for various reasons. It is tiring and uncomfortable for both the adults, but there are simple, natural and effective ways to manage wet cough for both adults and children alike.
Here in this blog, let’s walk through a few of the topics-like what is wet cough, difference between dry and wet cough, cough syrup suitable for wet cough and home remedies and natural tips to cure wet cough. This blog will act as a friendly guide to deal with the most common issue and a practical help book for both adults and children.
What is a wet cough? Difference between dry and wet cough
Dealing with wet cough is indeed difficult for both adults and children alike. A wet cough is typically the mucus or phlegm which accumulates in the throat when we cough or the sound which comes from our chest due to chest congestion for mucus. Now there is a difference between wet cough and dry cough and remedies will be slightly different in case of both.
Few of the symptoms include :-
- Frequent coughing spells especially at night
- Heavy cough with mucus and congestion in the chest
- A sore throat from constant coughing and cold
Wet cough/dry cough
Wet cough and dry cough can be confusing for common people as it is difficult to differentiate between the two, if not observed minutely. The main symptoms which distinguish both of them.
Wet cough
-
Produces mucus and has a symbolic congested chest and blocked nose
-
Produces heavy sound as a rattle
-
Typically associate itself with cold, cough, flu, bronchitis or pneumonia
Dry cough
Dry cough typically has-
-
No mucus or phlegm while coughing
-
In case of dry air or at night it worsens.
-
The throat remains irritated always as it the coughing spell comes very often in contrast to wet cough
Key differences
A dry cough irritates and stings while a wet cough clears. The goal with wet cough is to expel the stored mucus from the chest.
Natural remedies for wet cough (both adults and kids)
While there are various allopathic and homeopathic medications available in the market, natural remedies are the most conducive and easily available remedies which can provide results for wet cough. A chronic cough can be very irritating and can disrupt normal things like sleep, interfere with work and social interaction. Let’s check the remedies.
i. Honey- Honey is one of the easily available and best remedies for wet cough.
For adults- One spoonful of honey everyday can cure infection and sore throat
For children above 1 year- A teaspoon mixed with warm water or milk can ease nighttime coughing.
Note:- It is to be noted that honey should not be given to infants under 1 year.
ii. Ginger tea- Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties which is beneficial to loosen mucus.
For adults, one can sip warm ginger tea with a few drops of lemon in it. Ginger itself is beneficial and with repeated usage, it can work wonders.
For children, mild ginger-infused honey water is useful if children can have it repeatedly.
iii. Steam inhalation- Breathing steam helps to clear out the accumulated mucus and helps in getting relief within a short period of time.
For adults, adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil or any vapour rub can give real comfort.
For kids, it is safe to inhale steam from plain hot water and get the benefits. It is advisable to be with the kid during the process.
iv. Turmeric milk- Many families in India prepare turmeric milk for cold and cough. Turmeric kills germs. It is great for children and best if used before bed time.
v. Co-ex syrup- Another remedy which is very useful for soothing cough is Bhargava Phytolab’s Co-ex syrup. A natural remedy for both dry and wet coughs, asthma,cold, flu and wet cough. All its ingredients are extracts of natural herbs with valuable cough relieving properties.
vi. Gargle with warm water- Gargling with warm water is one of the easiest and natural ways to soothe an infected throat and get relief from wet cough.
Wet cough syrup for adults
While we have explained the usage and benefits for natural remedies for wet cough in both adults and children, sometimes over the counter drugs are also beneficial and give quick relief.
We need cough syrups which have expectorants, which help break mucus. Cough syrups with basil, tulsi and ginger works well for mucus stored. Bhargava Phytolab’s Co-ex syrup is very useful for wet cough as it is natural and free of any kind of sugar. It is useful for both dry and wet cough and is useful to soothe the respiratory organs.
But for children, it is best to consult a doctor and check the symptoms. Also, it is advisable to follow the proper dosages and avoid self-medicating for prolonged periods.
A family approach to healing
Dealing with a wet cough in a family setting means caring for both adults and children with remedies that are safe, gentle and effective.
- For adults- Ginger tea, turmeric milk, steam inhalation and herbal syrups are good for adults.
- For kids- (above 1 year)- Honey, warm soups, steam and lots of fluids.
- For everyone- Rest, hydration and warm and moist environment.
Final thoughts
A wet cough isn't necessarily a big deal, but it can keep the whole family from sleeping, playing, and working. A natural method that uses honey, ginger, steam, turmeric, and water can provide a lot of relief without having to rush to heavy drugs. Adults can use herbal moist cough syrups if they need to, but children do best with gentle, home-based treatments.
The objective is not to get rid of the cough entirely, but to alleviate the discomfort and promote the body's natural healing process.
FAQ’s
-
What are the common causes of wet cough ?
A: The most common cause of wet cough is infection in the lungs which blocks the airways.
-
Is wet cough contagious?
A: The cough itself is not contagious. But the viral and bacterial infections which are spread through cough can be. The duration of the cough depends on the severity of the infection.
-
How can wet cough be treated at home?
A: Wet cough can be treated in different ways for adults and children by using natural remedies.
-
Do antibiotics help in clearing wet cough?
A: Not always. It is most effective when wet coughs are generally caused by bacterial infection or through bacterial pneumonia.
