The Common Cough

Cough is an action that clears an irritated area of the lungs or throat. It is a common symptom of a number of disorders, such as the common cold, influenza, or a minor respiratory illness. A cough may also accompany a serious lung disorder or heart disease. Any cough that lasts for more than a few days should be discussed with a physician.

Coughing is a useful and protective mechanism, and treatment that completely suppresses it could do more harm than good. When a person coughs, a deep breath is taken in, the vocal cords close, and pressure builds up within the lungs. When the cords open, a violent expulsion of air takes place as the body attempts to expel any foreign material in the throat or lower respiratory tract.

Cough syrups that help the person to bring up phlegm are called expectorants, and many kinds are available without prescription. Other preparations containing antihistamines may help to dry up secretions. A cough suppressant, sometimes prescribed by a physician, contains a drug such as codeine or dextromethorphan. Codeine is a narcotic cough suppressant that may be prescribed for a cough in severe cases. It works by "turning off" the part of the brain that controls the coughing response. Codeine is a powerful drug and can have side effects, including nausea, sleepiness, and constipation. It can also be highly addictive.

The following combinations of vitamins and herbs are those recommended for a cough:-

Vitamins :- A, C (chewable)
Minerals :- Potassium Chloride
Herbs :- Garlic.html">Garlic, Horseradish , Fenugreek, Licorice.html">Licorice (Licorice should not be given to a child with high blood pressure), Herbal Cough Mixture, Ginger, Slippery Elm

The nutrients mentioned above reflect the major nutritional supplements that may help the condition. Please do remember however that nutritional supplementation is an adjunct to medical treatment and in no way replaces medical treatment.

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