LINDA J. DINDZANS, MD Office: 414-536-7000
JODI M. KORNAK, MD, MS,
FACS
Fax: 414-536-7001
Suggestions for Managing Chronic Cough, Throat Clearing,
And Dry Mucous Membrane
- Swallow hard if you feel the need to cough or clear your throat. This may clear the mucous.
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Increase your fluid intake to help thin respiratory secretions.
- If you have to be in a dry, dusty or overheated area for extended periods of time, breathe through your nose as much as possible.
- Increase ambient humidity by using a humidifier.
- Do not smoke. Avoid passive smoke and recreational drugs.
- Decrease alcohol consumption.
- Decrease caffeine consumption.
- Avoid milk products. They increase the thickness of mucous.
- Ask your physician about using an expectorant. It usually contains only guiafenesin and does not contain antihistamines or other drying agents.
- Avoid self medicating with over-the-counter cold and allergy medications. Medication that contains antihistamines and cough suppressants like codeine, dextramethorphan or diphenhydramine can dry the mouth and throat.
- Cough drops, throat lozenges, and hard candies DO NOT add moisture to the throat and larynx.
- Try the "silent cough" method.
K.
Wangerin 2/01