Although it’s tempting to reach for a cup of coffee when you’ve got a cough, the reality is that it may do more damage than good. Coughs are the body’s natural way of getting rid of an irritant, such as a cold virus or an unhealthy food. Coffee, on the other hand, has been linked to many possible health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain types of cancer and improving mental alertness.
When it comes to treating a cough, however, the evidence for coffee doesn’t look good. In fact, some studies have suggested that coffee can irritate the throat and lungs, which may make a cough worse. This is because coffee contains certain compounds, such as caffeine and acid, that can act as irritants. It is also thought that drinking coffee can cause dehydration, which can further aggravate a cough.
The link between coffee and cough has been studied by experts around the world. In one study, published in the journal Chest, researchers looked at the effects of coffee on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a condition which is characterised by an inflamed lining in the lungs. The results showed that drinking coffee can lead to an increase in the production of mucus and accelerate the deterioration of the lungs. This suggests that drinking coffee may worsen a cough.
It’s not just coffee that can make a cough worse. Other caffeinated drinks, such as tea and energy drinks, may also contribute to the problem. So if you’re experiencing a cough, it’s best to avoid all caffeinated beverages. Alternatively, you could try drinking herbal teas, which are caffeine-free and known to be soothing for the throat.
If you’re struggling to get relief from your cough, it’s important to seek professional advice. Your doctor may prescribe medication, such as cough medicines and decongestants, to help reduce your cough symptoms. In severe cases, they may refer you to a specialist for further tests. In the meantime, it’s best to avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks until your cough has subsided.
Cough and Dehydration
Dehydration can worsen the symptoms of a cough, as it can lead to a feeling of tightness in the chest. So it’s important to stay hydrated when you have a cough by drinking plenty of fluids. If you’re not able to get enough fluids through your diet, you may need to take an electrolyte drink or supplement, which will help keep you hydrated.
It is also important to avoid sodium-rich foods when you have a cough, as these can contribute to dehydration. Instead, focus on eating foods that are high in water content, such as fruits and vegetables, as well as foods that are high in fiber, such as whole grains and legumes. This will help to keep your body hydrated and reduce the severity of your cough.
Cough and Humidity
Humidity levels can also have an impact on a cough. The air in an environment that is too dry can irritate the throat and make a cough worse, while too much humidity can cause an increase in mucus production. So it’s important to maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home, as this can help to reduce the severity of your symptoms.
A humidifier can be used to add moisture to the air, which can help to reduce mucus production and ease throat irritation, while a dehumidifier can be used to reduce excess moisture in the air. Both of these devices can be found in most hardware stores, and can be easily installed in your home.
Over the Counter Remedies
Over-the-counter cough medications, such as cough syrups and lozenges, can be used to reduce the severity of a cough. These medications can help to ease throat irritation and suppress the urge to cough. But it is important to note that these medications should only be used in moderation, and only when recommended by a doctor.
If you’re looking for a more natural remedy, honey has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help to reduce the severity of a cough. Also, herbal teas, such as chamomile, ginger, and peppermint, are known to be soothing for the throat. However, it’s important to remember that these remedies don’t replace professional medical advice.
Conclusion
Coffee can be an irritant to the throat and lungs, and can even worsen the symptoms of a cough. So it is best to avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks when you have a cough. Instead, focus on staying hydrated and maintaining a comfortable humidity level in your home. You could also try using an over-the-counter remedy or natural remedy, such as honey, for symptom relief. In cases of a severe or persistent cough, however, it’s important to seek professional medical advice to ensure that your symptoms are properly treated.
