Cough: treating productive or 'wet' cough
A productive or ‘wet’ cough can be treated using expectorants, decongestants, mucolytics or steam inhalation. The aim of treatment here is not to suppress the cough, which is an important way of clearing infected secretions from the lungs, but to improve the efficiency of the cough and thus clear the airways.
Expectorants
Expectorants are substances that help to expel mucus from the lungs. They include guaifenesin (most common), and ammonium chloride.
Combination products
Combination expectorant and decongestant products are also available from your pharmacist. Some people should take care with combination products because:
- pseudoephedrine (a decongestant) may cause a rapid heartbeat, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia and a dry mouth. It should not be used for people with high blood pressure, heart problems, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or urinary retention;
- the ingredient choline theophyllinate may interact with some medicines; and
- added paracetamol may lead to an overdose of paracetamol if other paracetamol products are also being taken.
Mucolytics
Mucolytics, such as bromhexine, help break down thick, sticky chest phlegm, making it easier to cough up. Some products contain a combination of mucolytic and expectorant agents.
Steam inhalations
Steam is also good at breaking down the mucus and helping you to cough it up. Your pharmacist can advise you about the steam inhalation products available for general sale.
Physical therapy
To help clear secretions from the lungs, physiotherapists get people to blow out as long and as hard as they can against resistance — such as through a lightly pinched straw. This triggers a deep cough, which can help clear the lungs.
Supplements
The following supplements may also help:
- vitamin C plus bioflavonoids;
- horseradish;
- garlic and vitamin C; and
- garlic.
Last Reviewed: 25 March 2009
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