Coughing is a natural protective reflex. It helps the body remove mucus, dust, pathogens, and other foreign substances from the airways.
When you have a cold, the cough often starts out dry and irritating. As the cold progresses, mucus may build up, which is cleared from the airways by coughing. The appropriate measures therefore depend on the type and cause of the cough.
The airways are lined with a mucous membrane and tiny cilia. These help transport inhaled particles and mucus toward the throat.
When sensitive cough receptors are stimulated, the body triggers a forceful burst of air. This is intended to clear the airways of irritants as quickly as possible.
A cough is therefore not a disease in and of itself, but rather a symptom that can have various causes.
With a dry cough, little to no mucus is coughed up. It often feels scratchy, painful, or irritating, which is why it is also called a dry cough.
A dry cough often occurs at the beginning or toward the end of a cold. It can be particularly bothersome at night and interfere with sleep.
A productive cough causes mucus to build up in the airways. The cough reflex helps transport this mucus upward so it can be coughed up.
A productive cough should not be suppressed without professional advice, as the mucus needs to be cleared from the airways.
A cold is a common cause of acute cough. However, a cough can also be triggered by other medical conditions or irritants.
Possible causes include:
A cough without any apparent cold, a recurring cough, or symptoms that persist for a long time should be evaluated by a doctor.
When you have a cold, your cough may change as the illness progresses:
Even after the other cold symptoms have subsided, the cough may persist for some time.
Simple measures can help soothe irritated airways and make it easier to cough up phlegm.
Very severe and uncontrolled coughing can put additional strain on the already irritated airways. Therefore, it may be helpful to cough as controlled as possible.
For a dry cough:
When coughing up phlegm, you should try to bring the phlegm up with as few, targeted coughs as possible.
Lukewarm tea or water can help moisturize the throat and may feel soothing. Very hot beverages should be avoided, as they can further irritate the mucous membranes.
Honey can be soothing for a cold-related cough and a sore throat. It can be taken straight or mixed into a lukewarm drink.
Children under one year of age should not be given honey.
Inhaling saline solution can help moisturize the airways. The water should not be too hot to avoid scalding. Safe use is especially important for children.
Warm compresses can be soothing. They should be at a comfortable temperature and should not be used if you have a fever or are feeling significantly unwell.
Depending on whether the cough is dry or accompanied by phlegm, different herbs may be appropriate.
The spruce (Picea abies) is the main medicinal plant featured on this page. Among other parts, the young, light-green shoots—or spruce buds—are used.
Spruce and fir tips are traditionally used to treat respiratory catarrh and coughs associated with the common cold that produce thick mucus.
To the Plant Encyclopedia: Spruce
Common Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) contains mucilage. This can form a protective film over irritated mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
That's why marshmallow is particularly well-suited for the underside Dry cough.
To the Plant Encyclopedia: Marshmallow
Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is traditionally used to treat coughs and congestion in the respiratory tract. It is found, among other things, in teas and herbal cough remedies.
A.Vogel Cough Syrup contains an extract of fresh red fir buds and is sweetened with pear concentrate, whole cane sugar, and honey. It can be used for a cold-related cough with thick mucus and helps relieve coughing, a sore throat, and hoarseness. **This is an approved medication. Read the package insert.**
An acute cough usually lasts up to three weeks. However, after a respiratory infection, the cough may persist even after the other symptoms have subsided.
Depending on the duration, a distinction is made between:
A persistent cough should be evaluated by a doctor. This applies even if there are no other symptoms.
A medical evaluation is recommended in the following cases:
If you experience sudden shortness of breath, a bluish discoloration of the lips, or symptoms that appear life-threatening, seek medical help immediately.
