Decoding Your Cough: What It's Trying to Tell You

 

A cough is one of those universal signs that something isn't quite right with our respiratory system. Whether it's a dry, persistent hack or a wet phlegm-filled rattle, understanding what your cough is telling you can be crucial to knowing the best product to take to support the underlying issue effectively.

  

 

Types of Coughs and Which Products to Reach For:

 

 1. Dry, Tickling Cough

 

This type of cough often indicates irritation in the throat or upper airways, possibly due to allergies, dry air, or even the beginnings of a viral infection. It can be particularly bothersome because it doesn't produce phlegm.

 

Support with:

• Warm herbal teas with added honey and lemon. Honey has supportive antibacterial properties, while lemon boosts vitamin C levels, supporting immune function.
• Load up with Vitamin C — Simply add Harker Herbals Liquid Vitamin C with hot water, lemon and honey to a mug and sip on to soothe that tickle.

Products to reach for:

• Children's  — Ear, Nose & Throat, Children's Throat Spray, Chest Soothe Day, Chest Soothe Night
• Adults  — Ear, Nose & Throat, Be Well Throat Spray

 

2. Wet, Productive Cough

 

A cough that brings up mucus or phlegm suggests that your body is trying to clear out excess fluid which could be an infection from the lower airways.

 
Support with:

• Lots of fluids! Our bodies need to stay hydrated to help thin mucus, making it easier to expel.
• Sip on warm, lemon honey drinks with added Elderberry, Vitamin C + Zinc for the immune supportive benefit.
• Reach for Herbal expectorants that help loosen phlegm and make it easier to expel. 
• Steam inhalation with essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint can loosen congestion.

Products to reach for:

• Children's  — Deep Lung Support, Chest Soothe Day, Chest Soothe Night
• Adults   — Deep Lung Support, Chest Clear, Chest Relief Day, Chest Relief Night 

3. Barking Cough

 

Common in children with croup or adults with laryngitis, a barking cough is characterised by a harsh, hoarse sound often accompanied by difficulty breathing.
 

Support with:

• Steam therapy in a bathroom filled with steam from a hot shower can help ease respiratory distress.
• Keeping the air moist with a humidifier can also provide relief.
• Keep the throat soothed with honey herbal teas and our soothing Throat Sprays.

Products to reach for:

• Children's  — Deep Lung Support, Chest Soothe Day, Chest Soothe Night,  Children's Throat Spray,
• Adults    — Deep Lung Support, Chest Clear, Chest Relief Day, Chest Relief Night ,  Be Well Throat Spray

 

If you have any trouble breathing or are concerned about your breathing, seek medical attention.

 

4. Chronic Cough

 

Persisting for weeks or months, a chronic cough may indicate underlying conditions such as asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or even chronic bronchitis.

Identifying the underlying causes is crucial. Avoid triggers like smoke or allergens and maintain good indoor air quality.

Support with:

• Children's  — Deep Lung Support, Chest Soothe Day, Chest Soothe Night
• Adults     — Deep Lung Support, Chest Relief Day, Chest Relief Night 

 

When to Seek Medical Attention

It's essential to recognise when medical attention is necessary:

• Persistent Cough: Lasting longer than three weeks.

• Severe Symptoms: High fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or coughing up blood.

• Underlying Conditions: Chronic diseases like asthma or COPD that may exacerbate cough symptoms.

 

Final Thoughts

Your cough is more than just an annoyance—it's a valuable clue about your respiratory health. By listening to what your body is telling you through its cough, you can support your body's natural healing processes effectively. Remember, maintaining overall health through hydration, good nutrition, and minimising exposure to irritants are fundamental in preventing and managing cough symptoms. If in doubt or if symptoms persist, always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment options. Your respiratory health deserves the best care possible!