It’s natural to turn to coffee when you’re feeling unwell. But what if you have a cough? Can drinking coffee while coughing aggravate symptoms further, or even worsen the situation? Although coffee has been associated with numerous health benefits, there are a few things to consider when deciding whether to drink or not while coughing.
For starters, it’s important to note that coughing itself is a normal and healthy response to irritants and infection. It’s our body’s way of clearing potentially harmful material out of the airways and lungs. A person may feel the urge to drink something if coughing for an extended period of time. Coffee, which does contain caffeine, is an all-too-common option for some of us.
When it comes to drinking coffee while coughing, experts suggest it’s best to take a break. That being said, there are still some cases where coffee may be beneficial. For instance, some evidence suggests that small amounts of caffeine can help relieve coughs associated with bronchitis, because of its invigorating effects. Caffeine has also been found to reduce the production of certain hormones associated with coughing.
On the flip-side, the jury is still out on whether drinking coffee while coughing can increase irritation. Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production. This can lead to dehydration, which can make a person’s throat and airways more sensitive and prone to irritation. Coffee’s stimulating effects can also exacerbate coughing and make a person even more tired.
In the end, it’s really a personal choice. For people with chronic coughs, or those experiencing frequent coughing episodes, it may be best to avoid coffee while coughing. Moderation is key in any situation, and the same holds true here. For those experiencing occasional coughing, one or two cups of coffee may be acceptable.
Coffee and Cough Suppressants
Coffee is known to contain caffeine, a stimulant that helps to invigorate the mind and body. When it comes to easing coughs, caffeine is often found in cough suppressants. Because caffeine has long been studied for its stimulant and calming effects, it’s no wonder that it appears in many OTC medications.
Most OTC cough suppressants contain combinations of ingredients, including non-medicinal ingredients like fructose, ethyl alcohol, and of course caffeine. The caffeine found in cough suppressants is said to have a calming effect on the respiratory system. As a result, a person may feel relief from the annoying sensation of coughing.
In 2017, a Cochrane Review examining the effects of cough suppressants found evidence of minor benefits. However, researchers also raised concerns regarding caffeine’s stimulating effects, which can reduce the effectiveness of other medications. Drinks such as coffee or tea that contain small amounts of caffeine should also be considered.
These drinks may provide relief from coughing, though they’re not a long-term solution to the problem. Therefore, it’s best to consult a doctor before self-medicating. They can provide sound advice and determine which medications would be most effective.
Caffeine and Cough Reflex Sensitivity
Caffeine has also been studied for its effects on cough reflex sensitivity. In 1996, researchers at State University of New York discovered that caffeine reduced sensitivity to coughing as well as to bronchoconstriction, or the narrowing of the bronchial pathways.
The findings indicated that caffeine may help to inhibit or reduce the reflex act of coughing. This could mean less intense coughing when consumed in moderate amounts. However, it’s important to note that the study was short-term, and more research is needed on whether caffeine consumption has any long-term effects on cough reflex sensitivity.
In a more recent study from 2005, researchers observed the effects of coffee consumption on a group of people with chronic coughs. At the end of the study, the researchers found no significant impact on the patients’ coughing frequency or intensity. However, the researchers concluded that coffee consumption may provide minor relief.
Caffeinated Beverages and Chest Congestion
When it comes to chest congestion, data suggests that caffeinated beverages can help reduce the symptoms. In a 2014 study that compared the effects of coffee and tea on chest congestion, researchers found that coffee was the most effective at reducing symptoms. The beneficial effects of coffee persisted even 8 hours after consumption.
The study’s findings suggest that coffee can effectively reduce chest congestion, though there may be limits to its effectiveness. It’s also important to note that drinking too much coffee may create other issues, such as sleeplessness or an upset stomach. As with any food, it’s best to consume caffeinated beverages in moderation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s difficult to say whether drinking coffee while coughing is completely safe. Coffee can be beneficial in some cases, such as for relieving coughs associated with bronchitis. On the other hand, its stimulating effects can lead to dehydration and can even exacerbate coughing. Ultimately, it’s best to consult a doctor if experiencing frequent coughing episodes. A doctor can provide sound advice and determine the best course of treatment.
