FOR COUGH

Coughing is a reflex action which occurs in response to irritation of the breathing passages. It is the body's attempt to get mucus out of the lungs and bronchial tubes. Since it is useful, a cough which is bringing up mucus should not be suppressed. Shallow, hacky, raspy coughs are of no value and can irritate your throat further. Sometimes post nasal drip running down the back of the throat may be causing your cough. In that case, you will need a decongestant/antihistamine as well as a cough medicine.

NATURAL TREATMENT AND COMFORT MEASURES

DRINKING FLUIDS in large quantities (8 to 10 glasses per day) are the best, safest, and least expensive cough remedy. Fluids help your body thin the mucus from the inside, and make it easier to cough up phlegm. Fluids also sooth and lubricate the throat.
STOP SMOKING so that you won't further irritate your bronchial tubes. Smoking also hamper yuour ability to expectorate mucus by parylizing the tiny hairs called cilia which sweep mucus out of the breathing passages. Smokers have a greater tendency to catch colds and tend to keep their symptoms longer.
STEAM INHALATION from a vaporizer or hot shower will help loosen mucus and make it easier for you to cough up phlegm.
HARD CANDY may relieve dry tickling coughs.
AVOID ALCOHOL because it has a drying effect on the throat.

MEDICATIONS: Always read the label before taking any medication.

ROBITUSSIN (Guaifenesin syrup) is a good expectorant cough preparation for tight coughs. It helps your cough do what it is supposed to do. . . loosen and bring up mucus.
Adult Dosage: 2 tsp. ever 3 - 4 hours. No side effects with normal dosage.
ROBITUSSIN DM is an expectorant-suppressant cough preparation. It contains dextromethorphan, a non-narcotic cough silencer which helps suppress a dry, hacky, non-productive cough. The guaifenesin helps loosen mucus.
Adult Dosage: 2 tsp. every 4 hours.
Warnings: Do not use if you are presently taking a prescription drug for high blood pressure or depression without first consulting your doctor. Overdose may cause lightheadedness and euphoria.
CHERRY MENTHOL COUGH SUPPRESSANT DROPS provide temporary relief of coughs due to minor sore throats and colds. Contains menthol which provides vapor action and non-narcotic cough suppressant action for temporary relief of coughs.

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