Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Cough, a reflex action to clear the throat of mucus or foreign irritants, is a common symptom that can be both bothersome and indicative of underlying health issues. While coughs are a routine part of the human health landscape, affecting millions worldwide, their impact varies significantly from mere annoyance to severe disruption of daily life. The prevalence of cough is tough to pin down due to its commonality and the wide range of causes behind it; however, it is a leading cause of doctor visits globally.
The causes of a cough are multifaceted, ranging from environmental factors to chronic diseases. Acute coughs, typically lasting less than three weeks, are often due to infections such as the common cold, pneumonia, or acute bronchitis. Chronic coughs, lasting more than eight weeks, could be attributed to allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or even medications like ACE inhibitors used for high blood pressure.
- Persistent coughing or hacking - Phlegm or mucus production - Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing - Shortness of breath - Chest tightness - Sore throat - Fatigue due to disrupted sleep
To diagnose the cause of a cough, healthcare professionals typically start with a medical history review and a physical examination. They may inquire about the duration of the cough, associated symptoms, and any known triggers. Diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, CT scans, spirometry, and bronchoscopy could be warranted depending on the cough's persistence and the presence of other concerning symptoms. They might also assess for GERD or postnasal drip if these conditions are suspected causes.
Preventing a cough largely depends on avoiding known triggers. For those with allergies, reducing exposure to allergens can help. Regular handwashing can prevent infectious causes. For chronic conditions, appropriate management is crucial. Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of diseases. In treating a cough, this approach advocates for a holistic strategy that may include dietary changes, herbal supplements, hydration, and humidification of the surrounding environment. Honey and ginger, for example, have been recognized for their soothing properties and potential to relieve cough. Probiotics can also support immune health, possibly reducing the frequency of infectious causes. For those seeking natural remedies, it's important to discuss these with a healthcare provider, especially in the case of persistent or chronic coughs, to ensure they complement any existing treatment plans without causing adverse effects.