Gulf Health Council: 3 steps to relieve and treat coughs at home

The Gulf Health Council issued important warnings about the need to not ignore cough symptoms or neglect their treatment, noting that the correct way to deal with this health condition can be done through three simple and effective steps, based mainly on proper health care, humidifying the surrounding air, and working to reduce irritants that agitate the respiratory system.

General context and role of the Gulf Health Council

This directive comes as part of the ongoing awareness efforts of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Health Council, a cornerstone of the joint Gulf health system. Through these publications, the Council aims to raise health awareness among citizens and residents of the Gulf countries, particularly given the fluctuating weather and changing seasons, which typically see an increase in respiratory illnesses. These guidelines are especially important as they come from a trusted authority that seeks to promote preventative medicine and reduce the burden on healthcare facilities by raising awareness about home remedies for mild and moderate cases.

Coughing: A defense mechanism that should not be ignored

The council explained that coughing is essentially a natural and vital defense mechanism of the body, through which the respiratory system clears the airways of impurities, phlegm, and external irritants such as dust and smoke. Coughs are generally divided into two main types: a dry cough, which causes a feeling of irritation and itching without producing secretions, and a wet cough, which is accompanied by the expulsion of phlegm to help the body clear the airways. Although it is a defense mechanism, excessive and persistent coughing may indicate an underlying health problem that requires attention.

Practical guidelines for dealing with a cough

The council offered a package of straightforward medical advice to help alleviate the severity of the cough and speed up the recovery process, which included:

• Quitting smoking: Smoking is one of the most prominent irritants of the respiratory system, and stopping it directly contributes to improving the condition of the cough and the health of the lungs.
• Complete rest: Giving the body sufficient rest enhances the efficiency of the immune system in resisting infection.
• Drinking fluids: Drinking plenty of water and warm liquids effectively helps to thin the mucus and make it easier to expel.
• Soothing the throat: For a dry cough, lozenges or hard candy can be used to moisten the throat (taking care not to give them to children to avoid choking).
• Humidifying the air: Using humidifiers or inhaling steam while showering helps soothe a dry throat and relieve congestion.
• Treating the underlying cause: It is necessary to consult a doctor to treat the underlying cause of the cough if it persists for a long time.

Special advice for seasonal allergy sufferers

Given the prevalence of seasonal allergies in the region, the council dedicated part of its advice to this group to avoid coughing fits caused by environmental triggers:

• Staying indoors during peak pollen and dust periods, which are usually in the morning.
• Keep windows tightly closed and rely on air conditioning units with filters to purify the air.
• Avoid using fans that draw unfiltered outside air indoors.
• Shower and change clothes immediately upon returning from outside to get rid of any allergens.
• Use antihistamines and prescribed medications when needed to control symptoms.

Experts confirm that adhering to these simple guidelines not only helps alleviate patient suffering, but also limits the spread of respiratory infections in the community, thus promoting public health and quality of life.