Winter Cough: Understanding Its Causes & Effective Treatments

Colds, flu and other respiratory illnesses are often more common in colder months. Winter season forces people to spend time indoors, this allows viruses to pass more easily from one person to another. Moreover, the dark wintry environment encourages weak resistance. While a cough is a common reflex that clears the throat of mucus or foreign irritants several conditions can cause more frequent coughing.

Therefore, any cough that lasts for 2 weeks or more might indicate underlying issues. Read along, to learn why you cough more in winter, types of cough, causes and treatments for cough.

Understanding the Causes of Winter Cough

Winter days are harsh on our immune system. Also, people like to spend maximum time in front of heaters or fireplaces. Consequently, this harms our system and dries out our air passages. No wonder, the dry, winter air and dehydrated air passages join hands to make us cough even more.

Here are the major causes behind winter cough:

Viral Infections

• Coughing can be caused by pneumonia and flu.
• Coughing is also caused by postnasal dripping of mucus down the throat. 
• Asthmatic people are sensitive to cold air and irritants therefore they have a dry cough in winter.
• Inflammation due to Bronchitis can lead to a cough throughout the season.

Allergies

Coughing can occur due to various indoor and outdoor allergens like dust mites pet dander, mould and cockroaches.

Environmental Irritants

Various irritants including Dry Air, Air Pollution, Indoor Heating and Weakened Immunity increase the risk of infections and cause coughing in winter..

Effective Treatments for Winter Cough

The dry air in the winter season dries the air leaving throats dry, scratchy, and uncomfortable. Therefore, making people more prone to a sore throat. Consequently, natural alternatives and prescription medicines are both effective options to alleviate the symptoms and strengthen immune systems

However, treatments for cough may differ depending on the patient’s condition and the procedure followed by a physician.

Some common ways to treat cough:

Over-the-Counter Remedies for Cough

A physician may suggest, you try some common medicines, including pain relievers, decongestants, cough suppressants, antihistamines, and fever reducers.

to relieve symptoms:

• Cough Syrups contain ingredients to suppress coughs and loosen mucus. Moreover, you get temporary relief.
• Lozenges soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Also, these small tablets contain menthol or eucalyptus oil, which clears congestion and reduces inflammation.
• Expectorants help thin mucus in the airways. Therefore, they provide relief from coughs that produce phlegm or mucus. 

Prescription Medicines

The doctor will prescribe suitable medicines if he notices symptoms indicating bacterial or viral infections. Generally, antibiotics are suggested by a general physician for quicker relief.

Periodic Monitoring

Following routine protocols, the doctor will monitor the patient’s condition over time and also adjust medication depending on the progress. Generally, the doctor provides a date to follow up and contact them again. Ensure that you have a word with them about your progress over time. 

Moreover, if the cough shows no sign of subsiding, the doctor may suggest a special test for further diagnosis. 

Home Remedies

Doctors may suggest some home remedies along with medications to control the symptoms, including warm beverages, soups, saltwater gargles, ginger and raw honey, Also, he may advise taking herbal teas to soothe the throat itching and decongest the nose and throat.

When to Seek Medical Attention

You should consider consulting a doctor if your cough persists after several weeks or if you have any of the following symptoms with a cough:

• Greenish-yellow phlegm
• Wheezing
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Excess fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Choking
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Trouble swallowing
• Persistent or Severe Cough

Simple Prevention Tips for Winter Cough

Take some precautionary care to avoid catching a cold or viral infection in winter:

1.    Drink warm fluids.

2.    Use a humidifier.

3.    Quit smoking.

4.    Protect yourself with a mask.

5.    Protect against flu and pneumonia with vaccines.

6.    Maintain hygiene.

7.    Cover your chest and neck.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Winter cough is a common issue. However, healthy lifestyle habits can boost your immune system and help you avoid getting winter cough:

Regular Exercise

• Regular physical activity stimulates your immune system to fight infections.
• Exercise helps manage stress.
• Regular exercise can improve sleep quality boosting your ability to fight off illnesses.

Balanced Diet

• A well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps your body to function optimally.
• Foods rich in vitamins C, D, and zinc boost immunity.
• Adequate hydration maintains healthy mucous membranes

Sufficient Sleep

• Sleep helps repair the body, including your immune system.
• Adequate sleep helps regulate immune response.
• Sufficient sleep helps manage stress.

Hygiene Practices

1. Frequent Handwashing

• Hand washing reduces your risk of infection.

Covering Mouth and Nose When Coughing 

Covering your mouth and nose helps contain infectious droplets and prevent them from reaching others.

Avoiding Contact with Sick Individuals

Maintaining distance can help reduce your risk of infection.

Additional Tips

• Regularly clean and disinfect countertops, doorknobs, and phones.
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Types Of Cough To Watch Out For In Winter

Coughing is a natural reflex, to clear our throat and lungs and can occur due to various reasons. Here are four types of cough to be careful of in winter: 

Dry Cough

A dry cough is due to smoke, dust or allergens and without mucus. However, a dry cough creates a scratchy or ticklish feeling in the throat. Also, it may indicate viral infections, common cold or flu. 

Wet Cough

A wet cough is accompanied by mucus or phlegm. Moreover, it indicates respiratory conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

Barking Cough

Barking cough is common among children. Also, it indicates upper respiratory tract infection. Moreover, it creates a hoarse voice, fever, and breathing difficulties. 

Whooping Cough Or Pertussis

Whooping cough is a serious illness that can occur in anyone irrespective of age. However, it is dangerous for babies.

Conclusion

The information in this blog must have enlightened you about the types, causes and different treatments of winter cough. You can now identify the causes and appropriately seek treatment. However, if you notice that symptoms refuse to subside and coughing persists for more than two weeks. Do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Also, you must understand that home remedies provide temporary relief, but persistent or worsening symptoms need medical attention. Therefore, consider consulting at Dispur Polyclinic and Hospitals for expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

Why let a nagging cough ruin your winter festivities? Consider booking an appointment today. Call +91 8822669275 for appointment.