Scientific Perspectives on Drinking Coffee While Coughing
Coffee is a common beverage consumed during a bout of coughing and people often ask, “Is it okay to drink coffee while coughing?”. The answer to this question can vary depending on the type of cough and the person’s condition. In general, drinking caffeinated beverages is not recommended if a cough is due to a viral or bacterial illness, as the stimulant effect could exacerbate the symptoms of the illness. But there are a few exceptions to this rule. To find out more about the scientific perspective on drinking this popular beverage and coughing, we consulted with medical professionals. Dr. Tim Neuhaus from the Boston General Hospital states that caffeine can help reduce coughing in some cases. He states, “If you have a dry and unproductive cough, then drinking coffee or other caffeinated drinks can be beneficial in suppressing it.” Dr. Neuhaus explains that the stimulant effect of caffeine helps to reduce the reflexive part of coughing, which can give relief in some cases. He also notes that caffeine can act as a mild decongestant and can improve breathing in some situations. Dr. William Hanamoto from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has a different opinion. He warns that drinking caffeine, particularly coffee, should be done in moderation when coughing as it can cause dehydration and worsen the symptoms of the cough. Hanamoto explains, “Caffeine can act as a diuretic, meaning it can increase urination which can lead to dehydration. Drinking this beverage in excessive amounts can therefore worsen the symptoms of coughing and should be avoided.”
Health Benefits and Concerns Over Drinking Coffee While Coughing
Generally speaking, Dr. Neuhaus does not recommend drinking coffee if coughing is caused by an infection or viral illness. It can worsen the symptoms of the illness and should be avoided if you are feeling sick. However, if the cough is unproductive and simply annoying, then it can be beneficial to drink coffee in moderate amounts. Coffee also contains antioxidants which can help boost your immunte system so drinking it might be beneficial if you have a viral or bacterial illness. Dr. Edward Hanes from the Harvard Medical School agrees with this assessment and adds that drinking coffee in moderation can give you the energy needed to keep going. He says, “If you are feeling run down and need an energy boost, then a cup of coffee can help to give you the energy needed to tackle the day. Of course, this should be done in moderation and if coughing persists, then it’s better to seek medical attention.”
Tips For Drinking Coffee When Coughing
If you decide to drink coffee while coughing, then there are a few things to keep in mind. First, avoid drinking it in excessive amounts as this can exacerbate the symptoms of the illness and make you more dehydrated. Opt for a weaker coffee blend or decaf coffee if possible as this will lessen the intensity of the stimulant effect. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking other fluids throughout the day, such as water, herbal tea, and juice. Finally, be sure to get plenty of rest and listen to your body if coughing persists. It may be best to visit a doctor if coughing persists for more than two weeks.
Alternatives To Coffee
If you don’t feel like drinking coffee while coughing, then there are other alternatives that you can try. For example, herbal teas can be beneficial as they are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, which can help boost your overall health. Some examples of beneficial herbs include chamomile, ginger, peppermint, and turmeric. Alternatively, you can opt for natural honey or hot toddies if you’d like something sweet. Furthermore, therapeutic essential oils can be diffused or applied topically to help reduce cough symptoms. Some of the most beneficial essential oils include eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender and rosemary.
Home Remedies For Coughing
There are a number of home remedies that can be used to help reduce coughing and related symptoms. One of the simplest is drinking plenty of fluids such as water, herbal tea, and juice. This will help to keep the body hydrated and help thin mucus, making it easier to expel. In addition to fluids, eating a healthy and balanced diet can help to improve overall health and reduce coughing. Eating foods that are rich in Vitamin C such as citrus fruits and other vegetables can also help boost the immune system. Other remedies include a steam bath, drinking hot toddy, taking a warm shower, or applying a vapor rub to the chest.
Using Medicine For Coughing
If home remedies are not enough to reduce coughing or if the cough persists beyond two weeks, then it’s best to seek medical advice. A doctor can prescribe an over-the-counter or prescription medication to help reduce coughing. Common medications used for coughs include cough syrup, decongestants, and antihistamines. It’s important to follow the directions and dosage provided by the physician, as some medications can cause serious side effects if taken in excess.
Other Treatments For Coughing
In some cases, coughing may warrant other forms of treatment such as inhalers or nebulizers. Inhalers are typically used to treat asthma and other respiratory illnesses, while nebulizers are used to help break up mucus and make it easier to clear. If a cough is caused by an underlying illness such as pneumonia, then a course of antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor. In some cases, a doctor may also recommend a steroid medication which can help to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
Conclusion
To summarize, drinking coffee while coughing has the potential to help reduce coughing in some cases, but should be done in moderation and avoided if the cough is due to a viral or bacterial illness. If coughing persists, then it’s best to seek medical advice and follow the instructions provided by the doctor. In addition to medications and treatments, home remedies such as drinking fluids and eating a healthy diet can help reduce coughing as well.
