Types of Coughs and Suitable Medicines
Shop Cough Medicine Products
Different types of coughs may respond to different types of cough medicine. Understanding which type you have can help you choose an appropriate option:
Dry Cough Medicine
A dry, tickly cough without mucus may respond to cough suppressants (antitussives). These medicines work by reducing the cough reflex in the brain and are available in:
- Tablets and capsules: Brands like Codral and Demazin offer formulations that may help manage dry coughs
- Cough Syrups: Duro-Tuss and other brands provide liquid cough suppressant options that may be suitable for dry coughs
- Lozenges: Strepsils products may help soothe the throat irritation associated with dry coughs
Productive (Chesty) Cough Medicine
If your cough is producing mucus or phlegm, expectorant cough medicine may help as these formulations are designed to help thin mucus, making it easier to clear from your airways. They come in two forms:
- Liquid formulations: Brands like Duro-Tuss offer expectorant cough syrups
- Combination products: Some medicines combine expectorants with other ingredients to address multiple symptoms
When to Speak with Your Pharmacist
While cough medicine may help manage symptoms, it's important to speak with your Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist if:
- You're unsure which type of cough medicine may be suitable for your symptoms
- You're taking other medications that might interact with cough medicine
- You have underlying health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure or other respiratory conditions like asthma
However, if you're experiencing additional symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain or your cough has persisted for more than two weeks, please visit your Doctor.
Can I take cough syrup with other cold and flu medications?
Some cough syrups may be taken alongside other cold and flu medications, but it's important to check with your Pharmacist first to avoid double-dosing on active ingredients.
Our expert Pharmacists can advise on suitable combinations based on your symptoms and health profile.
What other things can I do to manage cough symptoms?
There are several supportive measures that may help manage your cough symptoms, including:
- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water may help thin mucus and soothe an irritated throat
- Using a vaporiser or humidifier: Adding moisture to the air may help ease congestion and throat irritation
- Adding an immune supplement to your routine: Products from brands like Henry Blooms and Herbs of Gold may help support your immune system while recovering
- Salt water gargles: May help soothe a sore throat associated with coughing
- Steam inhalation: Breathing in warm, moist air may help loosen mucus
- Resting: Give your body time to recover by getting adequate sleep and rest
- Sleeping in an elevated position: Propping your head up with extra pillows may reduce nighttime coughing that’s caused by post-nasal drip
Your Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist can provide personalised advice about which supportive measures may be most suitable for your specific symptoms.
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