Common colds and bugs always seem to do the rounds during the winter months, normally bringing along sniffly noses and tiresome coughs. What makes the cough more annoying is that it seems to want to stick around, even after you have gotten over the worst of the bug.
One doctor has kindly taken to TikTok to try and help us relieve our symptoms quicker. Dr Azmain Chowdbury has said that there are a few things you can try that might speed up the process of saying bye bye to the pesky tickle in your throat.
In his video, which has 408.6k views and over 5500 likes at the time of reporting, he said: “I’m a doctor but I’m not immune to the winter bugs going around.” Surrey Live has revealed his five hacks that could help with a cough, including his “magic potion”.
Gargling
“Gargle with warm, salty water. This helps flush out the bugs and mucus,” he advised.
Honey and Lemon
This hack is also known as his ‘magic potion’. Dr Azmain said: “The NHS recommends putting honey and lemon in hot water. I suggest adding some finely grated ginger and making it into a tea.”
Nasal spray
Dr Azmain advised: “Use a saline nasal spray. Spray it all the way up and then blow to get rid of mucus and bugs.” You can buy nasal spray at your local supermarket or pharmacist. If you’re up for it, you can also make your own.
He added: “You can make your own by dissolving salt in boiling water and then letting it fully cool. Do not use tap water directly or you risk a serious infection.”
Over-the-counter medication
Using paracetamol or ibuprofen is always a good choice, as Dr Azmain said they can help with issues such as fever, pain and muscle aches.
Nasal steroid spray
His final tip, if the rest fails, is to head to your doctor or pharmacist for a prescription. He said: “If you’ve been prescribed one, use a nasal steroid spray to help reduce inflammation in your nose and make breathing easier.”
Anything else I can do?
He added: “Apart from that all relevant advice still applies. Get some rest, stay at home, avoid seeing other people if you’re infectious. drink plenty of fluids.”
However, if your cough is still not improving after three weeks, or you are experiencing more serious symptoms like coughing up blood or struggling to breathe, then you should seek medical help.
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