Cough and Sore Throat

All people experience cough and sore throat many times in their lives. It is also one of the most common condition seen in infants and children. Cough and sore throat (strep throat) can be a symptom of a minor ailment like common cold or some other respiratory disorder.

Cough and Sore Throat: Causes and Symptoms
Cough can be a symptom of several disorders like asthma, common cold, influenza (flu), whooping cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, etc. Cough and sore throat can also be a symptom of air borne allergies. Therefore, we observe that respiratory disorders are the prominent causes of cough and sore throat in people. Cough can be of different types: dry cough, severe cough, spasmodic cough, or asthmatic cough. These types vary according to the cause. On the other hand, sore throat is often accompanied by burning sensation in the throat. Cough and sore throat are also seen to be followed by other symptoms like noisy breathing, nasal congestion (stuffy nose), slight fever, headache, etc.

Cough and Sore Throat: Treatment
It is essential to have immediate treatment for cough and sore throat as it causes a lot of discomfort. Cough and sore throat in minor cases can subside by itself within a day. However, if you are thinking how to get over a cold fast, you need to follow certain treatments. Firstly, taking compete rest is very essential. Although no evidence has been able to prove the exact effect of rest on symptoms of cough and sore throat, it is very effective. Bed rest for one whole day is the best treatment for viral and bacterial infectious diseases. Secondly, if one is accustomed in taking any specific medications, he/she should continue doing so as long as there are no side effects seen. Cough syrups, lozenges and sprays can also be used. Similarly, there are several over-the-counter pain killers and pain relievers available that help in treating sore throat. On the other hand, one also needs to restrict the intake of certain foodstuffs like cold drinks, sodas and other fried foods during this time. Rather, one can have chicken and vegetable soups, vegetable broths, cheese sandwiches and salads. One should also drink adequate amounts of water to keep the body well hydrated. Apart from these, there are several home remedies for dry cough and sore throat that are equally effective.

Cough and Sore Throat: Home Remedies
Here are some home remedies meant for soothing cough and sore throat.

• Add ¼ teaspoon turmeric in 1 glass of hot or lukewarm milk and drink it once or twice a day to soothe sore throat quickly.
• Gargling with salt water is the best remedy for treating sore throat and cough.
• Add 1-2 slices of ginger while preparing tea and drink it 2-3 times in a day. Ginger tea is an effective home remedy for sore throat and cough in Asian countries.
• Add some lemon and honey to a glass of lukewarm water and drink it once or twice in a day.
• Lemon and honey can also be added to tea to have a permanent soothing effect.
• Include foods containing vitamin C like lemon, oranges, amla (Indian gooseberry), etc. in your diet.
• Use a steam vaporizer to inhale steam which helps in clearing nasal congestion.
• Lastly, have a bowl of hot chicken soup once in a day to treat cough and sore throat.
• It is also advisable to install a humidifier in the room if there are children at home.

Cough and sore throat are minor symptoms that subside within a couple of days. However, if the symptoms persist even after taking medications or following home remedies, one should consult the doctor for proper medical treatment.