Home Remedy for Asthma Cough:

Asthma cough is used to describe the typical wheezing cough that is a major symptom of asthma, a serious chronic disease that is estimated to affect over 300 million people around the world. This disease causes inflammation of the sensitive tissues in the bronchial tubes of the lungs, leading to a build-up of mucous and tightening of the bronchial muscles. This restricts breathing in patients, who produce the wheezing cough when trying to expel mucous from the lungs. Asthma patients also suffer from potentially fatal asthma attacks, when the airways of the lungs suddenly narrow, making breathing very difficult. Such attacks are usually triggered when airborne particles irritate the sensitive inflamed tissues of the lungs, causing an instinctive constriction of the bronchial tubes. Other triggers include allergies to foods or chemical, stress, and strenuous exercise.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for asthma. All the current treatment is targeted at helping patients manage the symptoms of the condition. Doctors usually prescribe both short-term medication (usually inhalers to deal with asthma attacks) and long-term medication (drugs that help to reduce mucous and inflammation). In addition, asthma patients need to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of asthma attacks. These include maintaining a clean environment at home to avoid airborne triggers such as pollen, dust mites, pollution, tobacco smokes, and mold. Cold weather is especially problematic for asthma sufferers, since cold air constricts the already narrow bronchial tubes. One solution is to use a scarf over the mouth, which helps to warm the air entering the lungs. If a patient is allergic to certain foods such as peanuts or shellfish, these need to be identified and avoided. Coffee drinkers have an advantage, since caffeine is known to help dilate (open up) airways in the lungs. Similarly, spicy foods with hot chili peppers stimulate saliva and other liquids that thin out the mucous, making it easier to expel from the lungs.

Keeping the body well-hydrated with water has similar benefits. Over-the-counter cough medications should be avoided, since they may dry up the mucous, making the condition worse. Some studies indicate that a diet rich in vitamin C can help reduce the wheezing cough in asthma patients. Regular exercise is essential, since this helps to reduce stress levels, stimulate the immune system, and reduce obesity, which is known to increase the effects of asthma. It is also advised to get regular flu shots, since asthma increases the risk of contracting respiratory infections such as  influenza, including the H1N1 (swine flu) strain.