What can be done to effectively treat a chronic cough that is worsening due to climate change?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been dealing with a chronic cough for nearly a year. At first, I attempted to manage it with home remedies, which had worked in the past. However, this time, they did not offer any relief. About 8 months ago, I decided to see a chest specialist. After taking medication for a month, my symptoms improved by 90 percent. I stopped the medication, but within a month, the symptoms returned. Due to my busy schedule, I could not consult the doctor, and 4 months ago, I revisited the doctor. This time, it appeared that my cough was incurable. All tests, including allergy tests, came back clear. The doctor suggested that the trigger for my cough might be in the atmosphere and prescribed an inhaler (Formoflo 250) to be used as needed. Unfortunately, the inhaler did not provide relief. I started Ayurvedic treatment from a specialist, and the symptoms reduced by 60 percentage. I became frustrated with taking medicines, so, unfortunately, I left my cough untreated and only used cough drops when necessary. Now, with the changing climate, the symptoms are worsening, along with rib pain.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq, and thank you for choosing us as your provider for health care.

I have gone through all your details and appreciate your concern.

It sounds like you have been dealing with a chronic cough for quite some time and have already received medical attention. Here are a few suggestions that might help alleviate your symptoms:

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough fluids can help thin mucus and reduce coughing.
Avoid irritants: Try to identify and avoid any triggers or irritants in your environment, such as smoke, strong fumes, pollution, or allergens.
Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help soothe your airways and ease coughing.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, especially during cold and flu seasons, to reduce the risk of viral infections that can worsen coughing.
Consider lifestyle changes: If you smoke, quitting can significantly improve your cough symptoms. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can support overall respiratory health.

A dry cough refers to a cough that does not produce phlegm or mucus. While it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, here are a few general suggestions to alleviate dry cough symptoms:

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help soothe your throat and ease coughing.
Honey: Consuming honey, either on its own or mixed with warm water or herbal tea, can provide relief by coating the throat and reducing irritation.
Cough drops or lozenges: Over-the-counter cough drops or lozenges can temporarily suppress the urge to cough and provide soothing relief.
Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or using a humidifier can help moisturize your airways and soothe a dry cough.
Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid any irritants that may be triggering your cough, such as smoke, dust, or strong fumes.
Elevate your head: Prop yourself up with pillows while sleeping to help prevent postnasal drip, which can cause or worsen a dry cough.
Over-the-counter cough suppressants: cough syrup
Wear an N95 mask while going out.
Start nebulizing yourself with Levolin (Levosalbutamol) is a bronchodilator that helps relax and open the airways, commonly used for conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Ipratropium bromide is an anticholinergic medication that can also help relax the airway muscles. The combination of Levolin and Ipratropium bromide nebulization is sometimes prescribed and can be used two times a day for five days.

If you do not feel well still it will be best to see a physician for a physical check-up. Please follow me on the online platform for more health updates and quick health information. Please follow me on the online platform for more health updates and quick health information.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.

Thank you.