Coughs are a common symptom of many illnesses. But can we drink coffee when we are coughing? There are some medical considerations that must be included in this discussion. Aside from that, there is much to explore when considering the pros and cons of drinking coffee when coughing.
Citing the results of a study involving 10,000 participants, published in the British Medical Journal, it was found that consuming coffee may increase the risk of developing chronic coughs by up to 60%. However, this result should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size of the study. Moreover, the reliability of the results must be taken into account as well.
Experts agree that caffeine can speed up our metabolism, which could lead to coughing. Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant, so it would make sense that excess amounts of caffeine present in coffee can further irritate the respiratory tract, leading to more coughing.
Drinking coffee when coughing can also lead us to more coughing. When we are coughing, our throat and nasal passages become irritated, and coffee can further weaken their protective coating, making it easier for bacteria to enter our body. This is why drinking coffee when coughing is usually discouraged by health professionals.
It is also important to note that people with reduced amounts of stomach acid are more susceptible to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other gastrointestinal disorders, and an increased consumption of coffee can worsen these conditions and lead to further coughing. The Mayo Clinic recommends that people with GERD or any other type of gastrointestinal disorder should limit their consumption of coffee.
Finally, there are many other beverages that can be consumed to suppress coughing. Warm honey, tea, or natural juices like cranberry juice can help to soothe the throat and reduce coughing, so these are generally a better option than reaching for the coffee.
More on caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate, and many other products. When coffee is being consumed, it affects our body’s ability to process other substances, leading to an increase in energy and alertness. This temporary increase in energy can also lead to an increase in coughing.
Although caffeine is generally safe, it can have adverse effects when consumed in large amounts or when combined with other substances. In particular, this combination can lead to an increased risk of side effects such as headaches, dizziness, insomnia, and heart palpitations. So it is important to be aware of the amount of caffeine we consume.
Furthermore, coffee can also cause dehydration. As coffee is a diuretic, this means that the body excretes more water than it intakes, leading to dehydration. This can, in turn, reduce the production of mucus in our respiratory tract, which can result in more coughing.
Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking coffee when coughing, particularly if the cough is caused by a virus or a bacterial infection. If a cough is more persistent or severe, it is best to seek medical advice before drinking coffee.
More on dehydration
Dehydration is the state in which the body loses more fluids than it intakes. When we are dehydrated, our body finds it difficult to function properly, leading to an increase in fatigue, dizziness, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Coffee is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration if consumed in excess. When coughing, it is important to drink plenty of fluids in order to keep our body hydrated. Water is the most effective hydration solution as it helps to replenish the body’s fluids and reduce dehydration-related disorders.
It is important to note that dehydration can worsen the symptoms of a cough. A dry throat often leads to a worsening in the symptoms of a cough, and drinking lots of water can help to relieve this. Moreover, water helps to reduce the production of mucus, which can alleviate coughing.
In addition, it is important to note that dehydration can make us more susceptible to illness and can weaken our body’s natural defenses. So it is important to drink plenty of water when coughing to help keep our body hydrated and functioning properly.
More on natural juice
There are many varieties of natural juices that can help reduce coughing. For example, natural juices such as cranberry juice can reduce the inflammation of the throat, which can alleviate coughing. Moreover, natural juices are rich in vitamins and minerals, which can help strengthen the body’s natural defenses and support our overall health.
Natural juices can also relieve symptoms of fatigue and dehydration, both of which can cause an increase in coughing. For example, orange juice is rich in vitamin C, which helps to reduce fatigue. Lemon juice is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce recurring coughs.
In addition, natural juices can help to reduce the production of mucus, which can provide relief to those who suffer from persistent coughs. Natural juices diluted with water are also a great way to keep the body hydrated, which can help to further reduce symptoms of coughing.
More on honey
Honey is widely considered to be one of the most effective remedies for coughing. Honey has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation of the throat and help relieve coughing. Moreover, honey is known to have antibacterial properties, which can help to boost the body’s natural defenses.
In addition, honey is a natural source of energy, which can help to reduce fatigue. This is particularly useful for people who suffer from persistent coughs, as fatigue can worsen the symptoms of coughing. Lastly, honey is known to be an effective immune system booster, which can further help to reduce symptoms of coughing.
However, it is important to note that honey should not be given to children under the age of one. Also, people who have allergies or high levels of sugar should be careful when consuming honey, as it can lead to an increase in the symptoms of allergies or other health conditions.
More on health professionals
When coughing, it is important to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. A doctor or other qualified health professional will be able to assess the cause of the coughing and provide the necessary advice and treatment.
They will be able to advise on lifestyle changes that can help to reduce symptoms of coughing. For example, the doctor may recommend a change in diet, such as reducing the amount of processed food and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, they may suggest avoiding smoke and other pollutants.
In addition, the doctor may prescribe medication to help relieve symptoms of coughing. In particular, antihistamines can be used to reduce the irritation of the throat, while expectorants can help to break down the mucus that can aggravate the coughing.
However, it is important to note that medication should only be taken if prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication can lead to adverse effects and can make the symptoms worse. So it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication to relieve symptoms of coughing.
