Cough is a natural reflex of the body to protect the lungs against irritating substances. Cough can facilitate better breathing by keeping the respiratory tract clear. It is normal to cough a little bit sometimes. However, chronic or stronger coughs indicate that there may be problems in the respiratory system or other parts of the human body.

Common causes of coughs:

• Foreign substances get into the respiratory tract. For example, food, water or dust.
• Inhalation of irritating gas such as smoke and exhaust gas.
• Infection of viruses or bacteria. For example, flu.
• Allergic reactions. For example, allergic asthma.
• Respiratory tract diseases such as bronchitis, tracheitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis and emphysema.
• Night coughs may be the result of acid regurgitation that irritates the respiratory tract.

Some self-help tips:

• Drink more water or fruit juices but no coffee
• Take medicines for curing coughs. Most coughs can be relieved by taking Decaugh or Decaugh II.
• Excaugh can relieve the symptoms by removing mucus and increasing the normal discharge of the throat.
• NoFroZic can relieve throat irritation. It can prevent the onset of coughs when the throat is dry.
• You may also try drinking tea with honey
• Use humidifier. Dry air in winter may irritate the throat. Breathing will become smoother when using humidifier.
• If coughs are due to acid regurgitation, you may try raising the front of the bed a little bit for sleeping. Or you may refrain from food and water 2 to 3 hours before you sleep.

If coughs last 2 to 3 weeks and are accompanied by fever, breathlessness or mucus with blood, one should see a doctor immediately.