Smart Ways To Brace The Winter Snuffles

Myriad of cough and cold remedies keep flooding the markets on an annual basis ranging from decongestant sprays, lozenges to chest rubs. And in the backdrop of swine flu, these sales are bound to soar even further.

With such a vast array of products it could be quite a daunting task to decide on which one actually works best. As a guideline, if one is having merely a couple of symptoms, the apt decision would be looking for a product that would work in the main symptom instead of going in for a general cold cure.

Dry Coughs

Dry coughs occur due to inflammation or mucus dribbling down the nasal passage. There are two forms of dry cough remedies, one of which are ‘Demulcents’ that mostly have glycerine or glucose as its constituents for coating or soothing the backside of the throat.

More potent formulas containing dextromethorphan or pholcodine aid in suppressing cough reflex by working on the brain. They could additionally have other constituents like decongestants and anti-histamines for lowering the amount of mucus being produced.

Though syrups to soothe the throat are commonly obtainable, cough suppressants or potent decongestants are solely available over the counter at the pharmacy.

Contraindication

Syrups derived from glycerol that merely coat the throat are appropriate for majority of the individuals however the sugar content could be way too much for those having diabetes.

Those who are asthmatic or having respiratory distress must avoid cough-suppressant formulations as the cough reflex is the main caveat of an approaching attack. As a substitute, such persons could opt for medicines that contain antihistamines that could aid in clearing the nasal cavity.

Those suffering from heart ailments or blood problems must keep away from decongestants as they could increase blood pressure. They could start using pastilles that have sugar and glycerol as their main constituents for soothing the back part of the throat. A great home remedy is a drink made by blending warm water, lemon extract and honey.

Highly recommended

Benylin cough formulation has proven effectiveness as it has the dry cough suppressant, dextromethorphan as its active constituent. Other beneficial formulas are Robitussin Dry Cough Medicine and Boots Nirolex Dry Cough Relief remedy.

Coughs accompanied with Chest Congestion

Expectorant medications are needed to clear out chesty coughs as they have guaifenesin as its constituents that help in liquefying stubbornly lodged mucus in the chest, thus aiding in de-congesting the chest and facilitating easy coughing up of the mucus.

These medicines are available at off the counters in pharmacies and super marts.

Contraindication

Those having diabetes need to keep away from products having high sugar levels. Adult Meltus Chesty Coughs Sugar and Colour-Free are best suited for diabetics. However, one needs to be cautious about consuming medicines for stomach ulcers as guaifenesin could at times lead to irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. One could dissolve volatilising oil in hot water as another good choice though one must firstly confirm with the pharmacist.

Highly recommended

The liquorice extract present in Covonia Chesty Cough medicine is ideal for relieving chest congestion and does not have guaifenesin. Products like Nirolex and Benylin are also other good alternatives for providing relief to chesty coughs.

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