Persistent Cough

The last time I had cold fever, I was frustrated by a persistent cough that made my nights sleepless and caused serious concern to my parents. Due to persistent coughing, I had pain in the stomach and felt weak. Cough syrups did not work well, it was my maternal uncle who took me to the doctor, where I was diagnosed with severe respiratory infection. Of late, I've been cured and I pray that such severe coughing never occurs to anyone ~ Jessica T, (a high school student)

Many of us have experiences similar to that of Jessica, or may be even more scary. The fact is that persistent cough can cause discomfort and interfere with the lifestyle of a person. Abrupt exhalation causes weakness and exhaustion.

Causes
Dry persistent cough in children or adults is a hint towards infection in the upper respiratory tract or other organs related to breathing. Here are some causes of persistent cough. Read more on dry cough causes.

Common Cold
Almost all of us have sometimes in our life caught cold fever and persistent coughing after the cold has gone, would have been annoying. Common cold is, as per medical data, the most common infectious disease that affects humans. A closely linked viral infection of the upper respiratory system is influenza which is often confused with common cold.

Asthma
This lung disease characterized by recurring periods of wheezing, chest tightness and persistent cough, is a major health concern worldwide. Persistent coughing can be one of the many symptoms of asthma.

Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a reflux of contents of the stomach up to the esophagus that results in spasms causing shortness of breath and coughing.

Allergies
Increasing pollution has made us susceptible to a variety of allergies. Any microorganism inhaled through the nasal passage can be a cause of infection, leading to a persistent cough.

Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs that affects the alveoli. Coughing is a common symptom of pneumonia besides chest pain, shortness of breath and fever.

Tuberculosis
A contagious disease, tuberculosis, spreads through the air, just like common cold and adversely affects the lungs. Persistent cough is observed in tuberculosis as the severity of the disease increases.

Persistent Cough Remedy

While medications and medical consultancy is extremely essential and effective in curing persistent cough, there are many home remedies for cough that can be helpful to provide relief from coughing.

Honey and Lime Mixture
To get relief from the recurrent cough, make an equal proportioned mixture of honey and lime/lemon and have it periodically. Gradually, the cough will subside and you'll get a soothing effect.

Use an Expectorant
Expectorants are medications that help in expelling mucus and other matter from the lungs and respiratory organs. Eucalyptus oil can be used as a cure for persistent cough. While going to bed, try to rub the oil on the chest to get instant relief.

Garlic
The natural herb, garlic has various health benefits and to get relief from persistent cough take some crushed garlic and eat it periodically. You may add honey to it if you find the taste too pungent. Chew small pieces of garlic occasionally as it clears the throat and helps you to control the persistent cough.

Persistent cough can also be caused due to Licorice and bronchial problems. In case the persistent cough is not controlled, you must consult an expert and make changes in your lifestyle to cure the persistent coughing. Proper hygiene can also help in reducing the risk of infections.