Cough

Cough is one of the most common reasons for visits to health care providers. Normal coughing is important to keep your throat and airways clear. However, excessive coughing may mean you have an underlying disease or disorder.

Coughs can be dry or "productive" which means that you are bringing up sputum or phlegm when you cough. Coughs can be either acute (typically not lasting longer than two to three weeks) or chronic (lasting longer than two to three weeks).

Acute coughs usually begin suddenly and are often due to a cold, flu, or sinus infection. Coughs from a lung infection such as bronchitis can start out suddenly and then linger on. Other common causes of chronic or ongoing coughs include asthma, allergies (like hay fever called allergic rhinitis) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD from emphysema or chronic bronchitis), sinusitis leading to postnasal drip, smoking cigarettes or exposure to secondhand smoke, pollutants, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms that accompany your cough depend on the underlying cause and may include the following:

Causes

Diagnosis

Your health care provider will take a detailed history gathering information about the quality of the cough, how long you have had it, symptoms associated with the cough, etc. Your doctor will also conduct a thorough physical examination, paying particular attention to your nasal passages, throat, lungs, heart, and legs. Depending on what is suspected from the history and physical exam, your doctor may order cultures of the sputum (if you have a productive cough that may be bacterial), an electrocardiogram (EKG), lung function tests, or xrays of your chest or sinuses. Whether additional testing is needed will be determined from the results of these initial tests. Most often further testing is not necessary.

Treatment Approach

The goal of treatment is not only to soothe your cough, but to treat its underlying cause.

Your doctor will target the treatment toward that underlying cause if it has been identified. If there is a suspected but not confirmed cause, your doctor may suggest a trial period of certain medications that can help pinpoint the cause (for example, treatment with decongestants or antihistamines for suspected sinus inflammation or treatment with antacids or proton pump inhibitors for suspected GERD).

Other medications that may be prescribed either to relieve the cough or treat the underlying disorder include cough suppressants, inhalers, antibiotics, anithistamines, or expectorants.

A few supplements may be helpful in relieving your cough. Working with an herbalist may allow you to obtain an appropriate regimen of herbs that treat the underlying cause of your cough, especially if it is due to a cold.

Lifestyle

Medications

Different drugs, listed below, may be used to either relieve your cough or treat your underlying disorder.

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

Because supplements may have side effects or interact with medications, they should be taken only under the supervision of a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

Bromelain
Bromelain supplements may help suppress your cough, reduce nasal mucus associated with sinusitis, and relieve swelling and inflammation caused by hay fever. This supplement is often administered with quercetin.

Iron
One preliminary study suggested that iron supplementation may soothe and even prevent cough associated with a class of medications known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (such as enalapril, captopril, and lisinopril). ACE inhibitors are medications commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, but dry cough is a side effect that leads many people to discontinue their use. Despite this encouraging information, it is premature to conclude that taking iron with ACE inhibitors to reduce dry cough is safe or effective.

Plus, it is important to note that taking ACE inhibitors at the same time as iron may diminish the absorption of this nutrient. Therefore, if used together, the two should be taken at least two hours apart. Also, iron is associated with some risk for heart disease. For this reason, it should not be used if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or heart failure without the consent and supervision of your physician.

Quercetin
Often, bromelain is used together with quercetin, a flavonoid (plant pigment responsible for the colors found in fruits and vegetables). Quercetin has anti-histamine properties and, therefore, may be helpful if your cough is related to allergies.

Zinc
Several important studies have revealed that zinc lozenges may reduce the intensity of the symptoms associated with a cold, particularly cough, and the length of time that a cold lingers. Similarly, nasal zinc gel seems to shorten the duration of a cold. However, zinc nasal spray does not appear to have the same benefit.

Herbs

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care and only under the supervision of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of herbal medicine. Also, your physician should know about all herbs you are taking or considering taking.

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia/E. pallida/E. purpurea)
Echinacea is used to reduce the symptoms and duration of the common cold and flu and to alleviate the symptoms associated with them, such as sore throat (pharyngitis), cough, and fever.

Ephedra (Ephedra sinica)
The decongestant pseudoephedrine is a synthetic version of this herb that has been used traditionally to treat upper respiratory infections. The World Health Organization supports the use of ephedra as part of treatment for the common cold, hay fever, and sinusitis. Because of some serious risks associated with this herb (like stroke and irregular heart rhythm), use of ephedra should only take place under strict guidance and supervision by an herbal specialist and physician and only for short periods of time.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Eucalyptus oil acts as an expectorant (loosens phlegm in the respiratory passages). For this reason, it is commonly used to treat colds and coughs. It can be found in many lozenges, cough syrups, and vapor baths throughout the United States and Europe. Herbalists recommend the use of fresh leaves in teas and gargles to soothe sore throats and treat bronchitis and sinusitis. Ointments containing eucalyptus leaves are also applied to the nose and chest to relieve congestion. Eucalyptus oil helps loosen phlegm, so many herbal practitioners recommend inhaling eucalyptus vapors to help treat bronchitis, coughs, and the flu.

Garlic (Allium sativum)
People often use garlic to help reduce symptoms of colds, coughs, and bronchitis. In fact, studies suggest that garlic can help prevent colds and shorten the duration of symptoms (such as cough) once you have a cold.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is valued around the world as an important cooking spice and is believed to help common cold and flu-like symptoms, which may include cough. Scientific proof of this traditional use is lacking, but it may work for certain individuals. Talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to try ginger.

Jamaica Dogwood (Piscidia erythrina/Piscidia piscipula)
Based on clinical experience, a professional herbalist may recommend Jamaica dogwood to relieve cough. It is important to note, however, that there has been little to no scientific research on Jamaica dogwood, so the safety and effectiveness of this herb is relatively unknown. Jamaica dogwood is a potent herb and should be used only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
This herb has long been valued as a demulcent (soothing, coating agent) and continues to be used by professional herbalists today to relieve respiratory ailments from allergies, bronchitis, colds, and sore throats.

People who regularly consume large amounts of licorice (more than 20 g/day) may inadvertently raise blood levels of the hormone aldosterone, which can cause serious side effects including headache, high blood pressure, and heart problems.

People with high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or kidney, heart, or liver conditions should avoid licorice. This herb should also not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women or by men with decreased libido or other sexual dysfunctions. Use of any licorice product is not recommended for longer than four to six weeks.

Linden (Tilia cordata/platypus )
Linden flowers may be recommended by an herbalist for colds, cough, or fever.

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
Lobelia, also called Indian tobacco, has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. Today, lobelia is considered an effective expectorant, meaning that it helps clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Although few studies have thoroughly evaluated the safety and effectiveness of lobelia, a qualified healthcare practitioner may recommend lobelia (usually in combination with other herbs) for the treatment of cough, especially if due to either asthma or bronchitis.

It is important to note, however, that lobelia is a potentially toxic herb. Lobelia can be safely used in very small doses (particularly homeopathic doses), but moderate to large doses can cause serious adverse effects ranging from dry mouth and nausea to convulsions and even coma. Under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, however, lobelia, in combination with other herbs that affect the respiratory system, is considered relatively safe.

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)
A professional herbalist might consider using marshmallow for cough, based on long-standing, traditional use.

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)
Menthol, the main active ingredient in peppermint thins mucus, and is, therefore, a good expectorant, meaning that it helps loosen and break up the phlegm of productive coughs. It is soothing and calming for sore throats (pharyngitis) and dry coughs as well.

Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva)
Slippery elm has been used as an herbal remedy in North America for centuries including by the Cherokee who used it for coughs and other conditions. In fact, slippery elm has received recognition from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe and effective option for sore throat (pharyngitis) and respiratory symptoms, such as cough.

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica/Urtica urens)
Stinging nettle may act as an expectorant (meaning that it can loosen and break up a cough). Nettle may also be effective for treating certain individuals with allergic rhinitis (hay fever). This traditional use has had a lot of historical value for individuals. Early studies of people suggest that this historic use is likely scientifically valid. However, while the studies thus far have been favorable, they have not been overwhelmingly so. More research would be helpful. In the meantime, talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to try nettle as a possible alternative treatment during allergy season if you are prone to hay fever, which often manifests as cough.

Homeopathy

Although very few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic therapies, professional homeopaths may consider the following remedies for the treatment of coughs based on their knowledge and experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type. A constitutional type is defined as a person's physical, emotional, and psychological makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate treatment for each individual.

Acupuncture

Acupuncturists treat people with coughs based on an individualized evaluation of the excesses and deficiencies of qi (energy flow) located in various meridians as well as an assessment of the quality of food choices. In the case of most coughs, a qi deficiency is usually detected in the lung, spleen, and liver meridians. A variety of other treatments to clear qi blockage in the chest area are also administered. Such treatments may include specialized massage, moxibustion (a technique in which the herb mugwort is burned over specific acupuncture points), breathing exercises, lifestyle counseling, and suggestions about herbal remedies.

Other Considerations

Use the remedies that work best for you and follow the instructions of your health care provider. Be sure to get rest and drink plenty of water.

Warnings and Precautions

Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following characateristics to or symptoms accompanying your cough:

Prognosis and Complications

Severe coughing can cause rib fractures. If this happens, your provider may investigate the possibility of an underlying bone disorder, such as osteoporosis.

Most causes of cough are very treatable and the prognosis depends on the underlying reason for your cough.

References

Amitriptyline. NMIHI. Accessed at http://www.nmihi.com/a/amitriptyline.html on March 28, 2018.

Acyclovir. NMIHI. Accessed at http://www.nmihi.com/a/acyclovir.html on March 28, 2018.

Barrett B, Vohmann M, Calabrese C. Echinacea for upper respiratory infection. J Fam Pract. 1999;48:628-635.

Belongia EA, Berg R, Liu K. A randomized trial of zinc nasal spray for the treatment of upper respiratory illness in adults. Am J Med. 2001;111(2):103-108.

Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000:110-117, 118-123, 153-159, 233-239, 240-243, 244-248, 297-303.

Brinkeborn RM, Shah DV, Degenring FH. Echinaforce and other Echinacea fresh plant preparations in the treatment of the common cold. A randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Phytomedicine. 1999;6(1):1-6.

Cough. MedlinePlus. Accessed at https://medlineplus.gov/ on March 22, 2018.

Cough Medicine: Understanding Your OTC Options. American Academy of Family Physicians Accessed at https://familydoctor.org/ on March 22, 2018.

Cough Causes. MFMER. Accessed at https://www.mayoclinic.org/ on March 28, 2018.

Cummings S, Ullman D. Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam; 1997: 67-74.

Duke JA. The Green Pharmacy. Emmaus, Pa: Rodale Press; 1997.

Eby GA. Zinc ion availability—the determinant of efficacy in zinc lozenge treatment of common colds. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1997;40:483–493.

Eccles R. Menthol: effects on nasal sensation of airflow and the drive to breathe. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2003;3(3):210-214.

Fauci AS, Braunwald E, Isselbacher KJ, et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 14th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 1998.

Fischer C. Nettles-an aid to the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Eur Herbal Med. 1997;3(2):34-35.

Fluconazole. NMIHI. Accessed at http://www.nmihi.com/f/fluconazole.html on March 28, 2018.

Frank LG. The efficacy of Echinacea compound herbal tea preparation on the severity and duration of upper respiratory and flu symptoms: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study. J Comp Alt Med. 2000;6(4):327-334.

Gabapentin. NMIHI. Accessed at http://www.nmihi.com/f/gabapentin.html on March 28, 2018.

Garland ML, Hagmeyer KO. The role of zinc lozenges in treatment of the common cold. Ann Pharmacother. 1998;32:63–69.

Hirt M, Nobel Sion, Barron E. Zinc nasal gel for the treatment of common cold symptoms: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. ENT J. 2000;79(10):778-780, 782.

Jonas WB, Jacobs J. Healing with Homeopathy: The Doctors' Guide. New York, NY: Warner Books; 1996: 210-211.

Josling P. Preventing the common cold with a garlic supplement: a double blind, placebo-controlled survey. Adv Ther. 2001;18(4):189-193.

Lee SC, Park SW, Kim DK, Lee SH, Hong KP. Iron supplementation inhibits cough associated with ACE inhibitors. Hypertension. 2001;38(2):166-170.

Lindenmuth GF, Lindenmuth EB. The efficacy of echinacea compound herbal tea preparation on the severity and duration of upper respiratory and flu symptoms: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. J Altern Complement Med. 2000;6(4):327-334.

Mahady GB. Echinacea: recommendations for its use in prophylaxis and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Nutr Clin Care. 2001;4(4):199-208.

Maurer HR. Bromelain: biochemistry, pharmacology and medical use. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2001;58(9):1234-1245.

Medications for Cough. Drugs.com. Accessed at https://www.drugs.com/ on March 28, 2018.

Melchart D, Walther E, Linde K, Brandmaier R, Lersch C. Echinacea root extracts for the prevention of upper respiratory tract infections: a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial. Arch Fam Med. 1998;7:541–545.

Melchart D, Linde K, Fischer P, Kaesmayr J. Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold. [Review]. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;(2):CD000530.

Mittman P. Randomized, double-blind study of freeze-dried Urtica dioica in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Planta Medica. 1990;56:44-47.

Montelukast. NMIHI. Accessed at http://www.nmihi.com/m/montelukast.html on March 28, 2018.

Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press; 1996.

Norregaard J, Lykkegaard JJ, Mehlsen J, Danneskiold-Samsoe B. Zinc lozenges reduce the duration of common cold symptoms. Nutr Review. 1997;55(3):82-85.

Prasad AS, Fitzgerald JT, Bao B, Beck FW, Chandrasekar PH. Duration of symptoms and plasma cytokine levels in patients with the common cold treated with zinc acetate. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med. 2000;133(4):245-252.

Paroxetine. NMIHI. Accessed at http://www.nmihi.com/p/paroxetine.html on March 28, 2018.

Rotblatt M, Ziment I. Evidence-Based Herbal Medicine. Philadelphia, PA: Hanley & Belfus, Inc; 2002:160-165, 259-261, 337-338.

Sazawal S, Black RE, Jalla S, et al. Zinc supplementation reduces the incidence of acute lower respiratory infections in infants and preschool children: a double-blind, controlled trial. Pediatr. 1998;102(part 1):1–5.

Schaefer JP, Tam Y, Hasinoff BB, et al. Ferrous sulphate interacts with captopril. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1998;46(4):377-381.

Schulz V, Hänsel R, Tyler VE. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician's Guide to Herbal Medicines. 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer; 1998

Ullman D. Homeopathic Medicine for Children and Infants. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam; 1992: 70-73.

Ullman D. The Consumer's Guide to Homeopathy. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam; 1995: 228.

Ziment I. Herbal antitussives. Pulm Pharmacol Ther. 2002;15(3):327-333.