In the fall, Russians often complain that they cannot get rid of a cough after a cold and flu for a long time.
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Prolonged symptoms after viral colds could be caused by a mutated coronavirus, whooping cough, allergies, as well as the spread of the mycoplasma bacterium, allergist and immunologist Vladimir Bolibok told the 360 TV channel.
< br>A lingering cough can be explained by the spread of a new subtype of covid or an infection, Bolibok said. For example, the bacterium that provoked the incidence of pneumonia in China isMycoplasma pneumoniae.
“In our country, a fairly strong spread of this mycoplasma occurred in the late 90s – 2000s, then it did not exist for a long time was. Maybe now, if we start testing, we will also identify it,” Bolibok noted.
The good news is that there are many natural remedies that can help calm a persistent cough.
Especially for MedicForum, general practitioner Tatyana Zakharova spoke about ways to overcome a lingering cough.
“Indeed, typical symptoms include fever, cough , bronchitis, sore throat, headache and fatigue. A common result of mycoplasma infection is pneumonia,” says Zakharova.
1. Drink plenty of water
Maintaining enough fluid in your body is the first line of defense against coughing.
“When you're dehydrated, your body produces less saliva and mucus, which makes your throat dry and more prone to irritation. This can lead to a persistent cough. Drinking plenty of fluids helps loosen mucus in your throat, easing coughs and clearing your airways,” says Zakharova.
2. Eat a spoonful of honey
Its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties can help clear up infections, and its viscosity can coat and soothe an irritated throat. Consider drinking a spoonful of honey before bed to reduce nighttime coughs.
Warning: Never give honey to children under 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism.
3. Drink Herbal Tea
Some herbal teas, such as thyme, chamomile, peppermint, and licorice root, may be helpful for coughs. These teas are known for their soothing properties and can help reduce the cough reflex.
“The warmth of the tea can also stimulate saliva production, further reducing dryness and irritation in the throat.”
4. Gargling with Salt Water
Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore or scratchy throat that often accompanies a cough.
Salt water helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, providing temporary relief.
“Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water, gargle for a few seconds and spit out.”
5. Reduce Inflammation with Ginger
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps relieve coughs. This can reduce inflammation in the airways and even help suppress the cough reflex.
“Try drinking fresh ginger tea several times a day to relieve cough.”
6. Drink a warm turmeric drink
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. A warm turmeric drink can help soothe your throat, reduce inflammation, and relieve coughs.
7. Avoid exposure to irritants
Environmental irritants, such as smoke, dust, or strong odors, can make your cough worse. Keeping your environment clean and avoiding exposure to irritants can go a long way in controlling your cough.
“Always remember that while these natural remedies may provide relief, they may not address the underlying cause of your cough. If your cough persists for more than weeks, is severe or is accompanied by other alarming symptoms such as fever, weight loss or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical help.”
MedicForum previously wrote about the symptoms of an aneurysm.
< p class="warning_txt">Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.