What can I do to alleviate my wet cough?

Question

Hello, I have a cough that has been going on for a month. At first it was dry and now it is oily. I am on my second bottle of expectorant syrup and I still cough especially at night and in the morning. The secretions are yellowish and thick. I have no fever and feel fine despite the cough. No other symptoms.

Sarah-Yan Chagnon · Accepted Answer

Hello, Expectorant syrups sold in pharmacies often contain guaifenesin. Honestly, these types of syrups are not very effective, so I usually do not recommend them. Here's what can help you reduce your cough: Drinking lots of water Take lozenges to soothe your throat if it is irritated Take honey (e.g. 1 teaspoon in warm water) which has a natural cough suppressant effect if you have no contraindications Make sure the humidity in the room is high enough (around 40%) If you have a runny or blocked nose, it is important to take a nasal shower with saline water to clear the secretions and prevent them from falling into your lungs. If you are known to have a lung disease (ex: asthma), go see your pharmacist who will be able to guide you on the steps to follow. Hope to see you soon, Sarah-Yan Chagnon, pharmacist