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URLhttps://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stop-coughing
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Meta TitleHow To Stop Coughing
Meta DescriptionHome remedies like cough drops or honey can help put a stop to a cough. OTC meds can help, too. Seek care for a cough that lasts beyond three weeks.
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Coughing is your body’s way of clearing your airways of mucus, germs and irritants. It’s a helpful reflex that’s there to protect you. But coughing can also be downright annoying, especially when it keeps you from falling asleep or hits while you’re on an important call. Pulmonary medicine physician Rose Paccione, MD , offers advice to stop a cough — from home remedies and over-the-counter medications to when it’s time to call a provider. Home remedies for a cough When you have a cough that won’t quit, it’s natural to want to find a solution fast. Dr. Paccione recommends these strategies to ease mild coughs from allergies and viral illnesses, like colds. Suck on cough drops Cough drops are often the quickest way to relieve an annoying cough. But before you pop them like candy, know that following the directions on the package is important. Most brands recommend no more than one cough drop every two hours — and for good reason. “Cough drops with menthol can calm a cough for a few minutes,” Dr. Paccione says. “But some research suggests menthol could make your cough worse if you use too much.” Try ginger Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage a cough. It can also soothe a sore throat. Try: Drinking ginger tea Adding fresh or ground ginger to soup Sucking on ginger-flavored hard candies or ginger chews Chewing raw ginger Sipping a ginger spice smoothie Having a ginger shot Have some honey Honey can work as well as some over-the-counter medicines for mild coughs. Honey helps thin out mucus that makes you cough. It can also relieve a sore throat and calm the nerves that keep you coughing. “Try a spoonful of honey before bed to quiet a cough,” Dr. Paccione suggests. “You can also add it to tea or hot water for a soothing drink.” Remember not to give honey to babies under 1 year old. It can contain bacteria that can cause infant botulism , which is very dangerous. Use humidity and steam Dry air can make coughing worse. Adding some moisture to the mix can soothe your airways and break up mucus. You can try: Running a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom (and cleaning it regularly so it doesn’t grow mold) Taking a warm shower and breathing in the steam Leaning over a bowl of hot (not boiling) water with a towel over your head and inhaling the steam Change your sleep position If your cough is worse at night , your sleeping position could be part of the problem. “When you lie down, mucus can pool in the back of your throat and cause coughing,” Dr. Paccione explains. “Lying flat can also make acid reflux worse. Raising your head slightly can prevent both issues.” Try: Sleeping on a wedge pillow Stacking an extra pillow or two under your head Raising the head of your bed a few inches Drink lots of water Staying hydrated helps thin mucus and can calm that tickly feeling in your throat that makes you cough. Staying hydrated also helps your body fight off viruses that cause coughs, colds and other illnesses. Plain water will do the trick, but warm teas or broths can help, too. Avoid irritants Even a mild cough can hang around if your airways keep getting irritated. Common triggers to avoid include: Cigarette or vape smoke Strong perfumes or fragrances Cleaning products and chemicals Dust, mold and pet dander Cold air Using an air purifier or high-quality furnace filter at home can also help remove irritants from the air. Try a ‘stop cough’ technique Sometimes, you can break the cycle of coughing with a simple technique that can help relax the muscles in your throat. When you feel a cough coming on, try this: Place your hand gently over your mouth as soon as you feel that tickle or urge to cough. Swallow once. Keep your hand over your mouth and hold your breath for a few seconds. Take slow, smooth breaths for about 30 seconds. Tell yourself, “I’m not going to cough.” Breathe in normally through your nose. Take your hand away from your mouth. Repeat as needed if the urge comes back. Choose over-the-counter medications wisely OTC cough medicines can help, but it’s important to pick the right type for your cough. Look at the active ingredients on the label. There are two main types: Dextromethorphan (like Robitussin®) helps quiet the part of your brain that tells your body to cough. It can be most useful for a dry cough — the kind that has you hacking away without bringing up any mucus. Guaifenesin (like Mucinex®) is best used for a wet cough because it thins mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Don’t give cough medicine to kids under the age of 4 unless your child’s provider says it’s OK. These medicines can be unsafe for young children. Even for older kids, they may not be effective. Be careful when using combination “cold and flu” products, too. Check labels thoroughly so you don’t accidentally double up on ingredients. Know when to see a doctor about a cough Coughing can be a real annoyance, but it’s usually harmless and will go away on its own. But sometimes, a cough is a sign that something more serious is going on. Call a healthcare provider if you have: A barky cough that sounds like a seal Blood or bloody mucus when you cough Coughing fits that make it hard to breathe or talk A cough that lasts longer than three weeks Shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness Seek emergency care if: You’re struggling to breathe Your lips or face look blue or gray You feel like you might pass out Bottom line: Listen to your body (and your cough) Most coughs result from a virus or allergies and will clear up on their own. But don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider if your cough sounds unusual or is really bugging you. They can help you determine the cause and possible treatments so you can breathe easier.
Markdown
Locations: [Abu Dhabi](https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/)\|[Canada](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/canada)\|[Florida](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/florida)\|[London](https://clevelandcliniclondon.uk/)\|[Nevada](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/locations/nevada)\|[Ohio](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)\| ![Gray gradient](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/gray-gradient-left-16.59910877.svg?w=32&q=75)![Gray gradient](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/gray-gradient-right-32.dd7ce4e5.svg?w=64&q=75) - [Health Essentials](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/) - [Health Library](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health) - [Find a Provider](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/providers) - [Make an Appointment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/patients/information/access) - [News](https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/) - [Careers](https://jobs.clevelandclinic.org/) - [Contact Us](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/contact-us) [![Cleveland Clinic logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/logo-ccf.1e52a22b.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[![Cleveland Clinic icon](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/CCFLogo.000428c6.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [![Health Essentials logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/HealthEssentials.b811bb06.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/) ![](https://zdbb.net/l/Dnl1wmWs8xCCpvWNCt9Egf/?w=16&q=75) ![Search Icon](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/search--green.d4218f47.svg?w=64&q=75) Search Advertisement Advertisement February 19, 2026/[Health Conditions](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions)/[Lung](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/lung-health) # How To Stop Coughing: 9 Tips and Tricks Honey, humidity and the right OTC meds can help bring on cough relief ![Person coughing, with hand up to their mouth, holding packet of lozenges](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/LargeFeatureImage/c3d660fc-8b72-479f-9332-ae4e656fb57d/coughing-cough-drop-1286056018) **Image content:** This image is available to view online. View image online (https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/c3d660fc-8b72-479f-9332-ae4e656fb57d/coughing-cough-drop-1286056018) Person coughing, with hand up to their mouth, holding packet of lozenges [Coughing](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough) is your body’s way of clearing your airways of mucus, germs and irritants. It’s a helpful reflex that’s there to protect you. Advertisement Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. [Policy](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/advertising) But coughing can also be downright annoying, especially when it keeps you from falling asleep or hits while you’re on an important call. Pulmonary medicine physician [Rose Paccione, MD](https://providers.clevelandclinic.org/provider/rose-paccione/4271335), offers advice to stop a cough — from home remedies and over-the-counter medications to when it’s time to call a provider. ## Home remedies for a cough When you have a cough that won’t quit, it’s natural to want to find a solution fast. Dr. Paccione recommends these strategies to ease mild coughs from allergies and viral illnesses, like colds. ### Suck on cough drops Cough drops are often the quickest way to relieve an annoying cough. But before you pop them like candy, know that following the directions on the package is important. Most brands recommend no more than one cough drop every two hours — and for good reason. “Cough drops with menthol can calm a cough for a few minutes,” Dr. Paccione says. “But some [research](https://www.jabfm.org/content/31/2/183) suggests menthol could make your cough worse if you use too much.” ### Try ginger [Ginger](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ginger-health-benefits) has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage a cough. It can also soothe a sore throat. Try: - Drinking ginger tea - Adding fresh or ground ginger to soup - Sucking on ginger-flavored hard candies or ginger chews - Chewing raw ginger - Sipping a ginger spice smoothie - Having a ginger shot Advertisement ### Have some honey [Honey](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-cough) can work as well as some over-the-counter medicines for mild coughs. Honey helps thin out mucus that makes you cough. It can also [relieve a sore throat](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-sore-throat) and calm the nerves that keep you coughing. “Try a spoonful of honey before bed to quiet a cough,” Dr. Paccione suggests. “You can also add it to tea or hot water for a soothing drink.” Remember not to [give honey to babies](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-is-it-safe-to-give-honey-to-my-baby) under 1 year old. It can contain bacteria that can cause [infant botulism](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/infant-botulism), which is very dangerous. ### Use humidity and steam Dry air can make coughing worse. Adding some moisture to the mix can soothe your airways and break up mucus. You can try: - Running a cool-mist [humidifier](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-you-can-tell-if-you-need-a-humidifier) in your bedroom (and cleaning it regularly so it doesn’t grow mold) - Taking a warm shower and breathing in the steam - Leaning over a bowl of hot (not boiling) water with a towel over your head and inhaling the steam ### Change your sleep position If your [cough is worse at night](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stop-coughing-at-night), your sleeping position could be part of the problem. “When you lie down, mucus can pool in the back of your throat and cause coughing,” Dr. Paccione explains. “Lying flat can also make [acid reflux](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-acid-reflux-gerd) worse. Raising your head slightly can prevent both issues.” Try: - Sleeping on a wedge pillow - Stacking an extra pillow or two under your head - Raising the head of your bed a few inches ### Drink lots of water Staying hydrated helps thin mucus and can calm that tickly feeling in your throat that makes you cough. Staying hydrated also helps your body fight off viruses that cause coughs, colds and other illnesses. Plain water will do the trick, but warm teas or broths can help, too. ### Avoid irritants Even a mild cough can hang around if your airways keep getting irritated. Common triggers to avoid include: - Cigarette or vape smoke - Strong perfumes or fragrances - Cleaning products and chemicals - Dust, mold and pet dander - Cold air Using an air purifier or high-quality furnace filter at home can also help remove irritants from the air. ### Try a ‘stop cough’ technique Sometimes, you can break the cycle of coughing with a simple technique that can help relax the muscles in your throat. When you feel a cough coming on, try this: 1. Place your hand gently over your mouth as soon as you feel that tickle or urge to cough. 2. Swallow once. 3. Keep your hand over your mouth and hold your breath for a few seconds. 4. Take slow, smooth breaths for about 30 seconds. 5. Tell yourself, “I’m not going to cough.” 6. Breathe in normally through your nose. 7. Take your hand away from your mouth. 8. Repeat as needed if the urge comes back. ### Choose over-the-counter medications wisely OTC cough medicines can help, but it’s important to pick the right type for your cough. Look at the active ingredients on the label. Advertisement There are two main types: - **[Dextromethorphan](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/24718-dextromethorphan-bupropion-extended-release-tablets) (like Robitussin®)** helps quiet the part of your brain that tells your body to cough. It can be most useful for a [dry cough](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough) — the kind that has you hacking away without bringing up any mucus. - **[Guaifenesin](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/24710-guaifenesin-tablets) (like Mucinex®)** is best used for a [wet cough](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-cough-vs-wet-cough) because it thins mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Don’t give [cough medicine to kids](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-medicine-for-cough-and-cold) under the age of 4 unless your child’s provider says it’s OK. These medicines can be unsafe for young children. Even for older kids, they may not be effective. Be careful when using combination “cold and flu” products, too. Check labels thoroughly so you don’t accidentally double up on ingredients. ## Know when to see a doctor about a cough Coughing can be a real annoyance, but it’s usually harmless and will go away on its own. But sometimes, a cough is a sign that something more serious is going on. Call a healthcare provider if you have: - A barky cough that sounds like a seal - Blood or bloody mucus when you cough - Coughing fits that make it hard to breathe or talk - A cough that lasts longer than three weeks - Shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness Seek emergency care if: - You’re struggling to breathe - Your lips or face look blue or gray - You feel like you might pass out Advertisement ### Bottom line: Listen to your body (and your cough) Most coughs result from a virus or allergies and will clear up on their own. But don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider if your cough sounds unusual or is really bugging you. They can help you determine the cause and possible treatments so you can breathe easier. Advertisement [![Cleveland Clinic logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/logo-ccf.1e52a22b.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/)[![Cleveland Clinic icon](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/CCFLogo.000428c6.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) [![Health Essentials logo](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/_next/static/media/HealthEssentials.b811bb06.svg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/) ![Subscription icon](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/482db8cd-aa1e-45b5-a2a4-cf6aa5e5d2d4/Health-Essentials?w=256&q=75) ## Better health starts here Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. [Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026)[Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up) [Sign up](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health-essentials-sign-up)[Example email](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/2ff943a2-abb1-4a1c-8ede-f8848703e789/HealthEssentials-SampleEmail-2026) Learn more about our [editorial process](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/about/website/editorial-policy). Health Library Cough [What Is a Cough?](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#what-is-a-cough) [Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#possible-causes) [Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#care-and-treatment) [When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#when-to-call-the-doctor) [Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#additional-common-questions) Health Library Cough [What Is a Cough?](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#what-is-a-cough) [Possible Causes](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#possible-causes) [Care and Treatment](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#care-and-treatment) [When To Call the Doctor](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#when-to-call-the-doctor) [Additional Common Questions](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough#additional-common-questions) Advertisement ## Related Articles [![Person coughing into the crook of their elbow](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/cc2ca2d4-3ce2-4794-81c9-651d663a67c5/coughing-into-arm-1256378422?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-am-i-coughing-so-much) February 18, 2026/[Cold, Flu & Respiratory Illnesses](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/cold-flu-respiratory-illnesses) ### [Why Am I Coughing So Much?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-am-i-coughing-so-much) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-am-i-coughing-so-much Allergies, postnasal drip, asthma or reflux could be to blame for a cough that won’t quit [![Spoonful of honey from a honey jar](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/21d680cc-b1ba-436c-a1b9-50c23727cc95/spoonful-of-honey-1496854980?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-cough) November 5, 2025/[Primary Care](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/primary-care) ### [Can Honey Really Help a Cough?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-cough) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-cough Honey can help relieve a cough by lowering inflammation in your airways and loosening up mucus [![Man on cell phone, coughing into the crook of their arm](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/bdc1836e-7438-4aa7-879f-6861cf1b9e69/cough-into-arm-1216070173?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-cough-vs-wet-cough) October 16, 2025/[Primary Care](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/primary-care) ### [Dry vs. Wet Coughs: What They’re Telling You](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-cough-vs-wet-cough) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-cough-vs-wet-cough Dry coughs mean irritation, while wet coughs mean mucus [![Person coughing into their elbow, with hand on their chest](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/22b53546-cc39-4b0d-a09b-661caed04b7a/coughing-into-arm-1306472035?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-etiquette-why-its-so-important) March 13, 2025/[Infectious Disease](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/infectious-disease) ### [Cough Etiquette: How NOT To Get Other People Sick](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-etiquette-why-its-so-important) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-etiquette-why-its-so-important Germs spread quickly and easily, so covering your face, washing your hands and avoiding close contact are key [![Person coughing in a crowded museum](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/c92906a0-33e4-48c4-9fae-7ec0a21435b9/chronic-coughing-1270347804?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-a-cough) January 8, 2025/[Cold, Flu & Respiratory Illnesses](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/cold-flu-respiratory-illnesses) ### [When To See a Doctor for a Cough](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-a-cough) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-a-cough A chronic cough is one that lasts for eight weeks or more — and means you should see a healthcare provider [![Person in bulky sweater, with their hands holding cup of tea with tea bag in it](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/743e5c19-df7f-40ad-8078-693c936eb784/peppermint-Tea-cough-2154095453?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-syrup-cough-drops-menthol-rub-whats-best-for-my-cough) December 16, 2024/[Cold, Flu & Respiratory Illnesses](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/cold-flu-respiratory-illnesses) ### [OTC Cough Medicines: What’s Your Best Choice?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-syrup-cough-drops-menthol-rub-whats-best-for-my-cough) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cough-syrup-cough-drops-menthol-rub-whats-best-for-my-cough Over-the-counter options range from syrups to pills, lozenges to menthol rubs — but medication isn’t always the best treatment [![child getting a cough medicine dose by spoon](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/5d80d679-e197-48bf-aa63-ca9738e7a0e2/Cough-Medicine-For-Kids-1456434070-770x533-1_jpg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-medicine-for-cough-and-cold) October 30, 2023/[Children’s Health](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/childrens-health) ### [Cough Medicine and Kids: Safety and Alternatives To Stop the Cough](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-medicine-for-cough-and-cold) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-medicine-for-cough-and-cold Kids under 4 shouldn’t use cough and cold medicine — older kids may or may not benefit [![Person swims with flotation device in hands while doing laps at indoor pool.](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/998c039f-158b-4875-aba1-1d7353b919f7/person-Swims-Indoor-Pool-1429314758-770x533-1_jpg?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-the-chlorine-in-indoor-swimming-pools-hard-on-your-lungs) August 14, 2023/[Lung](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/lung-health) ### [Can Indoor Pools Cause Chlorine Cough?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-the-chlorine-in-indoor-swimming-pools-hard-on-your-lungs) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-the-chlorine-in-indoor-swimming-pools-hard-on-your-lungs Germ-killing chemicals in the water can lead to respiratory issues ## Trending Topics [![Person walking outdoors, looking at smartphone](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/c10f2c1c-3976-499f-b183-d6facbc668eb/california-sober-1133287692?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-cali-sober) [Mental Health](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/mental-health) ### [What Does It Mean To Be ‘California Sober’?](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-cali-sober) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-cali-sober This ‘harm reduction’ approach to sobriety involves subbing one substance for another — a method that isn’t backed by research [![Caregiver applying makeup to smiling teen](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/d46853f3-4bcf-483b-a969-21e217e1d467/mom-and-teen-makeup-fun-2253970391?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-your-child-want-to-wear-makeup-5-things-you-should-know) [Children’s Health](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/living-healthy/childrens-health) ### [Is It OK for Your Kid To Wear Makeup? 5 Things To Consider](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-your-child-want-to-wear-makeup-5-things-you-should-know) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-your-child-want-to-wear-makeup-5-things-you-should-know Educate your child about body image, expectations and skin care first [![Person in long-sleeve swimwear, scratching at their itchy wrist](https://assets.clevelandclinic.org/transform/StoryPanel/f861debb-bad0-4b41-a55d-e23757918e2b/chlorine-reaction-pool-1521871387?w=3840&q=75)](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/chlorine-rash) [Skin Care & Beauty](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-conditions/skin-care-beauty) ### [Is That a Chlorine Rash? 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Readable Markdown
[Coughing](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17755-cough) is your body’s way of clearing your airways of mucus, germs and irritants. It’s a helpful reflex that’s there to protect you. But coughing can also be downright annoying, especially when it keeps you from falling asleep or hits while you’re on an important call. Pulmonary medicine physician [Rose Paccione, MD](https://providers.clevelandclinic.org/provider/rose-paccione/4271335), offers advice to stop a cough — from home remedies and over-the-counter medications to when it’s time to call a provider. ## Home remedies for a cough When you have a cough that won’t quit, it’s natural to want to find a solution fast. Dr. Paccione recommends these strategies to ease mild coughs from allergies and viral illnesses, like colds. ### Suck on cough drops Cough drops are often the quickest way to relieve an annoying cough. But before you pop them like candy, know that following the directions on the package is important. Most brands recommend no more than one cough drop every two hours — and for good reason. “Cough drops with menthol can calm a cough for a few minutes,” Dr. Paccione says. “But some [research](https://www.jabfm.org/content/31/2/183) suggests menthol could make your cough worse if you use too much.” ### Try ginger [Ginger](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ginger-health-benefits) has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage a cough. It can also soothe a sore throat. Try: - Drinking ginger tea - Adding fresh or ground ginger to soup - Sucking on ginger-flavored hard candies or ginger chews - Chewing raw ginger - Sipping a ginger spice smoothie - Having a ginger shot ### Have some honey [Honey](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-cough) can work as well as some over-the-counter medicines for mild coughs. Honey helps thin out mucus that makes you cough. It can also [relieve a sore throat](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/honey-for-sore-throat) and calm the nerves that keep you coughing. “Try a spoonful of honey before bed to quiet a cough,” Dr. Paccione suggests. “You can also add it to tea or hot water for a soothing drink.” Remember not to [give honey to babies](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-is-it-safe-to-give-honey-to-my-baby) under 1 year old. It can contain bacteria that can cause [infant botulism](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/infant-botulism), which is very dangerous. ### Use humidity and steam Dry air can make coughing worse. Adding some moisture to the mix can soothe your airways and break up mucus. You can try: - Running a cool-mist [humidifier](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-you-can-tell-if-you-need-a-humidifier) in your bedroom (and cleaning it regularly so it doesn’t grow mold) - Taking a warm shower and breathing in the steam - Leaning over a bowl of hot (not boiling) water with a towel over your head and inhaling the steam ### Change your sleep position If your [cough is worse at night](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stop-coughing-at-night), your sleeping position could be part of the problem. “When you lie down, mucus can pool in the back of your throat and cause coughing,” Dr. Paccione explains. “Lying flat can also make [acid reflux](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-acid-reflux-gerd) worse. Raising your head slightly can prevent both issues.” Try: - Sleeping on a wedge pillow - Stacking an extra pillow or two under your head - Raising the head of your bed a few inches ### Drink lots of water Staying hydrated helps thin mucus and can calm that tickly feeling in your throat that makes you cough. Staying hydrated also helps your body fight off viruses that cause coughs, colds and other illnesses. Plain water will do the trick, but warm teas or broths can help, too. ### Avoid irritants Even a mild cough can hang around if your airways keep getting irritated. Common triggers to avoid include: - Cigarette or vape smoke - Strong perfumes or fragrances - Cleaning products and chemicals - Dust, mold and pet dander - Cold air Using an air purifier or high-quality furnace filter at home can also help remove irritants from the air. ### Try a ‘stop cough’ technique Sometimes, you can break the cycle of coughing with a simple technique that can help relax the muscles in your throat. When you feel a cough coming on, try this: 1. Place your hand gently over your mouth as soon as you feel that tickle or urge to cough. 2. Swallow once. 3. Keep your hand over your mouth and hold your breath for a few seconds. 4. Take slow, smooth breaths for about 30 seconds. 5. Tell yourself, “I’m not going to cough.” 6. Breathe in normally through your nose. 7. Take your hand away from your mouth. 8. Repeat as needed if the urge comes back. ### Choose over-the-counter medications wisely OTC cough medicines can help, but it’s important to pick the right type for your cough. Look at the active ingredients on the label. There are two main types: - **[Dextromethorphan](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/24718-dextromethorphan-bupropion-extended-release-tablets) (like Robitussin®)** helps quiet the part of your brain that tells your body to cough. It can be most useful for a [dry cough](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/dry-cough) — the kind that has you hacking away without bringing up any mucus. - **[Guaifenesin](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/24710-guaifenesin-tablets) (like Mucinex®)** is best used for a [wet cough](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dry-cough-vs-wet-cough) because it thins mucus and makes it easier to cough up. Don’t give [cough medicine to kids](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/kids-medicine-for-cough-and-cold) under the age of 4 unless your child’s provider says it’s OK. These medicines can be unsafe for young children. Even for older kids, they may not be effective. Be careful when using combination “cold and flu” products, too. Check labels thoroughly so you don’t accidentally double up on ingredients. ## Know when to see a doctor about a cough Coughing can be a real annoyance, but it’s usually harmless and will go away on its own. But sometimes, a cough is a sign that something more serious is going on. Call a healthcare provider if you have: - A barky cough that sounds like a seal - Blood or bloody mucus when you cough - Coughing fits that make it hard to breathe or talk - A cough that lasts longer than three weeks - Shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness Seek emergency care if: - You’re struggling to breathe - Your lips or face look blue or gray - You feel like you might pass out ### Bottom line: Listen to your body (and your cough) Most coughs result from a virus or allergies and will clear up on their own. But don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider if your cough sounds unusual or is really bugging you. They can help you determine the cause and possible treatments so you can breathe easier.
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