Cough Physical Symptoms & Self Help

A cough is the body’s attempt to expel an irritant from the respiratory tract. The lungs build up a pressure of air that is released suddenly in an attempt to dislodge the cause of irritation. A cough either produces mucus or is dry. Irritation of the lining of the airway may be caused by catarrh dripping down the back of the throat, smoking, or atmospheric particles. Coughing can also be triggered by a shock or fright.

SPECIFIC AILMENT & PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS

Dry, irritating cough that comes on suddenly
• Dry, hollow-sounding, croaky cough
• Great thirst
• Possible rapid rise in temperature

Cough with chest pain
• Bursting headache, aggravated by even the slightest cough, possibly with fever
• Extreme thirst, usually for warm drinks, but at infrequent intervals
• Whole body feels dehydrated

Cough with thick, green catarrh
• Thick, green, bitter-tasting catarrh is coughed up, leaving an unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Poor appetite
• Tongue has a white coating
• Green, bland catarrh may issue from the nose
• Little or no thirst

SELF-HELP
Humidify all rooms. If you smoke, stop. Avoid dusty, smoky places and going out in cold, damp weather. Rest and drink a lot, especially hot water with fresh lemon juice and a little honey. If you are producing copious catarrh, avoid dairy products and starchy foods, which may increase mucus production. Try homeopathic or herbal over-the-counter cough mixtures.

CAUTION
If a cough is accompanied by breathing difficulties, fever, or chest pain, see a doctor. If it results from inhaling dust or fumes, and does not improve within two days, see a doctor.