The common cold stands as a widely prevalent acute ailment across communities, exhibiting a range of symptoms, including the familiar and bothersome nagging cough. Prior to suggesting any over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressants, it is imperative for pharmacists to advise patients to seek consultation from a medical professional before administering such medications to children below the age of 4.
FAVORED CHOICES AMONG PHARMACISTS
The question of how to effectively halt coughing is of considerable significance. In the year 2019, a survey conducted by Pharmacy Times® for their OTC Guide® revealed that 44% of participating pharmacists endorsed Delsym (
Equally crucial is managing patient expectations. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, dextromethorphan exhibited a 19% to 36% reduction in cough frequency, translating to 8 to 10 fewer coughs within a 30-minute interval. Guaifenesin displayed seemingly more favorable outcomes, diminishing both cough frequency and intensity by 75% after 3 days. However, these outcomes lacked statistical significance (P = .5). Additionally, patients must be informed to discontinue usage upon experiencing severe adverse effects, including confusion, facial or lip swelling, and shortness of breath. While OTC products cannot provide a cure for persistent coughs, they can effectively manage symptoms and offer reassurance when used appropriately.
COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES
Numerous individuals explore home remedies and natural remedies to alleviate stubborn coughs. One extensively researched option is honey. Administering 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of honey to a coughing child 30 minutes prior to bedtime has been suggested to enhance sleep quality for both the child and caregiver. Honey’s efficacy in adults remains debatable. It is essential to acknowledge that the FDA does not regulate common complementary and alternative medicines; hence, their usage should be approached cautiously. This category encompasses ginger, marshmallow root, probiotics, and thyme. For maintaining moist mucous membranes and loosening mucus, the FDA does recommend gargles, nasal sprays, and saline drops. Moreover, employing humidifiers or cool-mist vaporizers at bedside can humidify the air, potentially alleviating airway irritation contributing to coughing. Should symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen, patients should promptly seek medical attention.
When grappling with a persistent cough, a holistic approach incorporating lifestyle adjustments and diligent self-care strategies is pivotal for symptom alleviation. Encouraging patients to maintain adequate hydration proves essential, as ample fluid intake thins mucus and soothes irritated airways. Similarly, evading irritants such as smoke, pollutants, and potent odors is imperative to prevent exacerbation of coughing episodes. Ceasing tobacco use is of paramount importance, given its detrimental impact on cough severity and overall health. Elevating the head during sleep can aid in reducing pos-tnasal drip-induced coughing by preventing mucus accumulation in the throat.
Furthermore, educating patients on the significance of a robust immune system holds substantial value. A well-rounded diet replete with vitamins and minerals, regular physical activity, and sufficient sleep collectively bolster the body’s ability to fend off infections that trigger coughing. Stress management techniques, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga, contribute to overall well-being and potentially alleviate chronic coughing by mitigating stress-related exacerbations.
In cases where an underlying medical condition gives rise to the cough, addressing and managing the root cause is paramount. Conditions such as allergies, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other respiratory infections can lead to persistent coughs. Encouraging patients to promptly seek medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment remains essential. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in guiding patients toward suitable healthcare professionals and interventions, ensuring effective management of the underlying cause of the cough.
In conclusion, addressing a persistent cough necessitates a comprehensive approach. Pharmacists wield the capacity to offer valuable recommendations for OTC cough suppressants and expectorants, in addition to educating patients about the potential merits of complementary and alternative remedies, such as honey and humidifiers. Lifestyle adjustments encompassing hydration, irritant avoidance, and stress reduction should be underscored to promote overall respiratory wellness. Ultimately, furnishing patients with accurate information and guidance can empower them for better self-management of cough symptoms and an enhanced quality of life.
