The Common Cough

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, Horseradish , Fenugreek, Licorice.html">Licorice (Licorice should not be given to a child with high blood pressure), Herbal Cough Mixture, Ginger.html">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.