How to Stop an Asthma Cough?

How to Quickly Relieve an Asthma Cough

An asthma cough is characterized by a dry, continuous cough caused by inflammation and obstruction of the airways. It is a chronic disease which generally causes wheezing and shortness of breath and can lead to complications like reduced lung function if not treated in a timely manner.

Keep reading this guide to learn effective ways to stop an asthma cough, its causes, treatment options and more.  

What to Do in Case of an Asthma Coughing Fit or Attack?

When you are experiencing an asthma coughing fit or attack, do the following:

• The first and foremost point is to use the rescue inhaler immediately.
• Sit straight to ease breathing.
• Drink lukewarm water to reduce throat inflammation.
• Don’t lie down flat.
• If none of the above subsides, immediately consult a doctor.

What Causes an Asthmatic Cough?

The following are some of the triggers that can increase and worsen an asthma-related cough:

• Airborne allergens, pollen, dust mites, and mould (fungi)
• Air pollution and smoke exposure
• Cold air, especially during exercise
• Strong odours (perfumes, cleaning products)
• Viral respiratory infections
• Night-time airway cooling

These factors irritate the bronchial tubes, causing inflammation and coughing.

How Do You Identify an Asthma Cough from a Simple Cough?

The following signs will help you distinguish between the two:

• Asthmatic cough is often dry.
• It usually worsens at night or early in the morning.
• Some common triggers are allergens or cold air.
• Symptoms usually improve with bronchodilators.

Note: Always consult a doctor, and the use of inhalers should be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

What are the Different Treatment Options for an Asthma Cough?

Several treatment options are available for an asthma cough. Below are a few examples:

1. Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS)

This is the best and easiest way to reduce inflammation in the airways. Some examples are Fluticasone and Budesonide.

2. Short-Acting Beta Agonists (SABA)

SABA is often taken as a quick relief measure during coughing episodes. Example: Salbutamol.

3. Long-Acting Beta Agonists (LABA) + ICS

When symptoms are frequent and need to be controlled daily, this is the available treatment option. E.g. Beclomethasone.

4. Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists (LTRAs)

These come in pretty handy when you have allergic asthma-related coughs. Example: Montelukast.

Note: Always follow the treatment plan guided by your allergist.

Can Implementing Lifestyle Changes Manage Asthma Coughing?

Just like most other diseases, implementing a few lifestyle changes can help manage asthma cough in the long run. Here are a few tips to follow:

• Know your allergies and avoid notable triggers.
• Try to maintain good indoor air quality.
• Use hypoallergenic bedding (in case allergy is the cause).
• Maintain proper hygiene and keep the surroundings dust-free.
• Practice yoga or light asanas. Breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, are beneficial.
• Moisture is the key. Hence, stay hydrated to keep the respiratory tract moist.

Is Taking Asthma Cough Medication Important Every Day?

Never, ever skip your asthma medication. In the case of long-term management, skipping controller medication (like ICS) can lead to chronic inflammation, frequent coughing, and sometimes permanent damage to the airways.

Asthma cough is manageable, but only with regular medication and active lifestyle changes.

Can Food or Supplements Help an Asthma Cough?

In the case of allergic patients, certain additives can trigger asthma. However, evidence-based studies state that the following foods and supplements can be helpful:

• Vitamin D: In severe cases, the amount of vitamin D decreases. Hence, taking it orally may reduce asthma severity
• Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables: Eating food rich in Vitamins E and C could be beneficial.
• Whole-grain Foods: Eating whole-grain foods may help ease the symptoms.

When Should You Seek Urgent Care for Asthma Cough?

In case any of the following symptoms worsen, reach out to a hospital immediately:

• The rescue inhaler is of no use.
• Shortness of breath, even without physical activity, or random pain in the chest.
• Regular disruption of sleep due to extreme coughing.
• Difficulty breathing when playing or doing exercise.

Any further delay in treatment will increase the chances of severe asthma attacks.

Which Health Insurance is Best for Asthma Management?

Chronic diseases like asthma involve regular consultations. Use of inhalers, lung function tests, and sometimes hospitalization is often mandatory. This can take a financial toll on the patient.

Hence, Star Health Insurance offers dedicated plans that cover costs without breaking the bank. They include:

• OPD consultations
• Pulmonary diagnostics
• Inhaler therapy
• Emergency hospitalization for exacerbations

With Star Health, individuals and families dealing with asthma can access timely care without financial strain, ensuring better long-term outcomes. Additionally, they can get benefits like cashless hospitalization, telemedicine, e-pharmacy services and more, with 90% of cashless claims settled within 2 hours.   

Call us now for further details!