How to Stop a Tickly Cough Instantly: 12 Proven Remedies for Day & Night

A persistent tickly dry cough can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, often disrupting your daily activities and sleep. Whether you’re dealing with a nighttime cough, an itchy throat, or a constant tickle in your throat, finding instant relief is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 12 effective methods to stop coughing quickly and soothe that irritating dry cough in your sore throat.

Understanding Tickly Coughs

Before diving into home remedies, it’s important to understand what causes a tickly cough. Common causes include:

•         Allergies
•         Dry air
•         Post-nasal drip
•         Viral infections
•         Acid reflux
•         Upper respiratory infections

 How to Stop Coughing Instantly

1.     Drink Warm Fluids

Sipping on warm liquids can provide immediate relief for a tickly cough and sore throat, such as:

•         Herbal tea (such as ginger tea or marshmallow root tea)
•         Warm water with honey and a few drops of lemon juice
•         Hot soup

These warm fluids help soothe to get rid of an irritated throat, loosen mucus, and provide hydration to combat dry cough.

2. Steam Inhalation

Inhaling steam is an excellent way to moisten your airways and get rid of throat irritation, along with dry cough. This method can be particularly effective for managing nighttime coughing.

3. Honey and Hot Water

A time-tested remedy, mixing honey with hot water creates a soothing elixir that can coat your throat and reduce inflammation. Honey’s natural antiviral and antibacterial properties may also help fight off infections causing your cough.

4. Avoid Irritants

Identifying and avoiding triggers like cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, or common allergens can significantly reduce coughing episodes and provide instant relief.

5. Over-the-Counter Remedies

Various OTC options can offer quick relief from a tickly cough:

•         Cough Drops

Cough drops or lozenges can stimulate saliva production, keeping your throat moist and reducing the urge to cough.

•         Steamy Shower

Hot showers not only provide steam inhalation but also help relax muscular pain, ease dry cough, and improve sleep quality.

•         Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication

Cough suppressants or expectorants can provide quick relief from tickly throat, especially for persistent or nocturnal coughs. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional.

6. Gargle with Salt Water

A simple warm salt water gargle can help reduce throat inflammation, provide instant relief from an itchy cough and sore throat. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle for 10-15 seconds. This is very effective and the easiest remedy.

7. Use an Air Purifier

Improving dry air quality in your home can significantly reduce coughing triggers, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities to air pollution.

8. Soup

Warm chicken soup or vegetable broth can soothe your throat and provide hydration, helping alleviate tickly cough symptoms, boost your immune system and respiratory tract.

9. Thyme Tea

Thyme has natural expectorant properties that can help relieve coughs. Brewing a cup of thyme hot tea with spoonful of honey can offer quick relief from throat irritation and help loosen mucus.

10. Ginger Root

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an irritated throat. Try making ginger hot tea or you can also chew on a small piece of fresh ginger root.

11. Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root has been used for centuries to treat coughs and sore throats. It forms a protective coating on the throat, reducing irritation.

12. Ice Chips

Ice chips can help numb and soothe an irritated throat, providing temporary relief from coughing.

“Chronic cough in post-COVID syndrome: Laryngeal electromyography”: This study discusses the prevalence and management of chronic cough as a symptom of post-COVID syndrome, emphasizing the need for further research into effective treatments​(Oxford Academic)​.

 When to See a Doctor

While most tickly coughs resolve on their own, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if:

•         Your cough persists for more than three weeks
•         You’re experiencing severe symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing
•         You’re coughing up blood or discolored mucus
•         Your cough is interfering with your daily activities or sleep

A persistent or severe cough could be a sign of an underlying condition that requires medical attention, such as chronic cough, sinus infection, or even more serious respiratory issues.

 Conclusion

Treating a tickly cough might be difficult, but there are ways to reduce its effects on your everyday life and provide rapid relief. You can try natural remedies like honey and ginger tea, avoid irritants, and sip warm liquids or steam inhalation to help relax your throat and lessen coughing. Sustaining a healthy lifestyle, using over-the-counter medicines, and staying hydrated are all important factors in enhancing respiratory health.

You can better manage a tickly cough and enhance your general health by learning the causes and using these solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

– Disclaimer –

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health-related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.