What to do when you have a cough? Your pharmacy recommends.

HELP AGAINST COUGH

First you have a scratchy throat, then a runny nose, and after five to six days you have to cough. Many people are familiar with this process, especially at this time of year, as it describes a typical cold. It is usually caused by viruses. When the airways become inflamed, doctors call it bronchitis. In this case, the cilia of the airways become clogged with viscous mucus. The result is an initially dry cough. With a cough reflex, the body tries to expel mucus or irritants from the airways. The mucus usually disappears after one to three days. Doctors then speak of a productive cough.

Pharmaceuticals at a glance

- Cough suppressants: Cough blockers, also known as antitussives, have proven their worth in the dry cough phase or when the cough robs you of sleep at night. Pharmacies sell herbal preparations containing extracts of ribwort plantain, marshmallow root or Iceland moss. They form a protective layer of mucus on the inflamed mucous membrane of the throat and pharynx and thus soothe the irritation of the cough. Medication with ivy extract reduces the urge to cough and also makes it easier to cough up. There are also synthetic cough suppressants. These contain the substance dextromethorphan, for example - it acts centrally in the cough reflex centre and suppresses the urge to cough.

- Hustenstiller: Wenn sich der Schleim nach einigen Tagen zu lösen beginnt, kann dieser Prozess durch so genannte Expektorantien unterstützt werden. Sie erhöhen das Sekretvolumen oder machen den Schleim flüssiger, so dass er leichter abgehustet werden kann. Bewährte Wirkstoffe sind Acetylcystein, Ambroxol oder Guaifenesin. Wer pflanzliche Mittel bevorzugt, kann Präparate mit Efeu- oder Thymianextrakt einnehmen.

- Other remedies: Two other herbal preparations can help against coughs: an extract from the root of Cape geranium and a combination preparation of nasturtium and horseradish root may work directly against the viruses or bacteria that cause coughs.

IMPORTANT: It is best never to use cough suppressants and expectorants at the same time, as their effects are opposite. However, it is often advisable to loosen the mucus during the day and, if necessary, soothe the cough at night. The pharmacist will be happy to advise you.

When to see a doctor:

A cough is usually harmless, often lasts one to two weeks and then often subsides on its own. If you feel very ill, have a fever or pain, or if the cough lasts longer, it is advisable to consult a doctor

Effective home remedies:

- Drinking plenty of fluids helps to loosen mucus. Warm drinks or cough teas from the pharmacy are particularly suitable.

- Inhaling with essential oils of eucalyptus, thyme, camomile or sage helps with coughing.

- Rubbing with cold balm has a soothing effect. Essential oils such as pine needle and eucalyptus oil or preparations with camphor and menthol have a natural effect.

Quelle: © Apothekerverband Nordrhein e.V. in Kooperation mit der Avoxa – Mediengruppe Deutscher Apotheker GmbH