Does your cough persist for several weeks after illness? Doctor Darien Sutton, American emergency doctor, explains on ABC News how to get rid of it using a very simple remedy.
- The cough persists on average three weeks after a virus.
- Dr. Darien Sutton recommends drinking a cup of warm water with one to two drops of Eucalyptus essential oil three times a day for three days.
- Adding a spoonful of honey could also help soothe a cough.
Coughing is a natural defense mechanism in the event of respiratory tract irritation. But when the disease in question has not been there for several weeks and the cough persists, how can you get rid of it? In ABC NewsDoctor Darien Sutton, American emergency doctor, gives us his advice.
Coughing is a normal phenomenon
Cough “helps eliminate secretions from the bronchi and thus facilitates breathing” indicates the Vidal on his site. Pneumonia, flu, colds, bronchitis, asthma… For many illnesses, coughing is therefore necessary. And if it persists beyond the symptoms of the initial pathology, this is also completely normal. Dr. Darien Sutton explains this phenomenon:
“We have small pockets of air in our lungs, indicates the expert. They help exchange oxygen with our blood so we can get the air we need, but with seasonal colds, you have a buildup of mucus that irritates your cough receptors.“On average, a cough can last three weeks after a virus, sometimes a little longer.
Persistent cough: rely on eucalyptus and honey
Whether it’s day or night, this cough may be normal, but it can also be very annoying. Dr Darien Sutton delivers his tip so that it disappears more quickly: “Put one to two drops of Eucalyptus essential oil in a cup of hot water, indicates the American doctor. Eucalyptus is a good anti-inflammatory that smells fantastic and helps clear your airways.”
To this, you can add a small spoon of liquid honey to soften the cough. This remedy should be consumed three times a day for three days according to the American expert. Be careful, however, this remedy should not be given to young children. Furthermore, it is recommended to seek the advice of a professional before using essential oils in order to know the contraindications.
If, despite the drink, the cough does not go away, it is best to make an appointment with your doctor. “Beyond 8 weeks, this is what we call a “chronic cough” and it can become worrying, ensurese Dr. Darien Sutton. It is advisable to consult a doctor to find out more about the cause of this persistent cough.“
