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5 Home Remedies for Your Cough

January 28, 2025

If your cough is wearing you down, there’s good news – relief is out there.

We asked Syed Hussain, MD, medical director of Hartford HealthCare Urgent Care, to break down the most common causes of your cough and share five simple ways to start feeling better today.

Every cough has a cause.

And figuring it out is the first step to feeling better.

Dr. Hussain breaks down the most common causes:

• Asthma: When asthma isn’t controlled, it often leads to a dry cough and wheezing. Managing asthma better can help stop the cough.
• GERD: Acid reflux can cause heartburn and a nagging cough. Medication and sleeping with your upper body elevated can make a big difference.
• Respiratory illnesses: Sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia or postnasal drip often come with coughs and other symptoms like sinus pressure, shortness of breath or fever.
• Smoking: This is a big one. Quitting helps your cough – and your overall health.
• Medications: Certain blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors or lisinopril can trigger coughing.

> Related: What Your Mucus Color Is Trying to Tell You

Try these 5 remedies for your cough.

1. Warm tea.

Sipping warm tea with honey and lemon is a go-to remedy for a reason. “It’s helpful for many respiratory illnesses when combined with other treatments,” says Dr. Hussain. “Plus, it’s great for easing throat scratchiness.”

2. Allergy medication.

Postnasal drip is often to blame for a lingering cough. “Over-the-counter allergy medications like Claritin or Zyrtec can reduce the drip that keeps irritating your throat,” explains Dr. Hussain. “Just be sure to avoid versions with Sudafed.”

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3. Prop up in bed.

Lying flat can make GERD or postnasal drip worse and lead to nighttime coughing fits. “Elevating your head — about 30 degrees — can help,” says Dr. Hussain. “Use an extra pillow or wedge to get some rest.”

4. Throat drops.

Simple over-the-counter throat drops like Halls or Ricola can help your irritated throat. “They’re great for relieving scratchiness or an allergic cough, too,” says Dr. Hussain.

5. Eat earlier.

Late-night snacks might be making your cough worse. “Heavy meals, especially in the evening, can trigger GERD and reflux issues,” explains Dr. Hussain. “Eating earlier can help keep reflux-related coughing at bay.”

> Related: 3 Popular Cold Remedies That Can Do More Harm Than Good

When to see a doctor.

If your cough won’t let up, it’s time to visit urgent care or check in with your PCP.

“And remember, over-the-counter options aren’t for everyone,” says Dr. Hussain. “Many of these medications contain Sudafed or other stimulants, which aren’t ideal for people with high blood pressure or heart disease. Diabetic patients should also check the sugar content of these labels.”

Most importantly – don’t ignore your symptoms.

“If your cough comes with a fever, shortness of breath or discolored mucus, see your doctor right away,” adds Dr. Hussain.