Cough
CONDITION: Cough
OVERVIEW: A cough is a generalized term for the body’s response to irritation in the throat and involves pushing air out of the lungs to dispel the source of irritation. There are two types of coughs: acute (lasting 2-3 weeks) or chronic (lasting longer than 8 weeks).
SYMPTOMS:
- Sore throat
- Chest pain
- Mucus
- Fever
- Headache
- Sinus pain and congestion
CAUSES: There are many causes for coughing but the most common include allergies, the common cold, and influenza. Other causes include:
Allergies
Asthma
Bronchitis
Chronic sinusitis
Common cold
Croup
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Influenza
Laryngitis
Medications like ACE inhibitors
Postnasal drip
WHAT MAKES IT WORSE
- Dry air
- Exposure to allergens
- Stress
- Smoking
COMMON THERAPIES: Common over-the-counter medications include cough suppressants, antihistamines, decongestants, expectorants, and sore throat lozenges—many of which have ingredients you can't pronounce.
NATURAL INGREDIENTS WE USE:
Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Acts as a decongestant and expectorant
Lavender Essential Oil: Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties
Peppermint Essential Oil: Acts as a decongestant & eases headaches
Tea Tree Essential Oil: Has broad antimicrobial properties and decreases inflammation
LIFESTYLE GUIDE:
- Sip tea, like soothing chamomile with a slice of lemon.
- Keep the air moist to help soothe nasal passages by using a humidifier or taking a shower.
- Eat foods of different colors to load up on vitamin C and phytonutrients.
- Calm your cough with our plant-based Breathe-Ease Balm.
Resources
“Cough.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Jan. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/cough/basics/definition/sym-20050846.
Harvard Health Publishing. “That Nagging Cough.” Harvard Health Blog, Harvard Health Publishing, www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/that-nagging-cough.
Blasio, Francesco De, et al. “Cough Management: a Practical Approach.” Cough, vol. 7, no. 1, 2011, p. 7., doi:10.1186/1745-9974-7-7.
Morice, A H. “Recommendations for the Management of Cough in Adults.” Thorax, vol. 61, no. suppl_1, 2006, pp. i1–i24., doi:10.1136/thx.2006.065144.
