menwomenhealthtoday.com

Physicians who are immunologists understand that a cough following the flu is frequently the result of the patient’s immune system not responding to toxins remaining after the virus is eliminated. But to the patient who has paid their dues with days of chills, aches, sore throat and congestion, a cough that just won’t quit is an unwanted souvenir of this year’s flu virus.

There are other reasons for this stubborn nuisance. “When coughing, the lining of the airways are exposed to intense friction and pressure. This weakens the delicate skin of the airways and leaves us open to further infection or reaction,” says Dr. Elin Ritchie of Taos, N.M. “The flu recovery itself can cause a cough, like the itch of a healing wound on the skin. Allergies and dry air aggravate the problem. Dust and mold takes up residence under the carpet in during the winter and people who never have allergies can experience them now.”

But there are some measures you can take to eliminate or reduce that pesky cough.

Try taking a probiotic-based immune support product like Del-Immune V (www.delimmune.com) which helps heal the lining of the air tubes and decreases allergies and infection. “I’ve found patients get better faster when they take it,” says Dr. Ritchie.

Bill Moore of Longmont, Colo., is the perfect example. “Last winter after a mild cold, I was plagued with a troubling and persistent cough which lasted six weeks. Nothing diminished my coughing attacks. I finally decided to try the Del-Immune formula to improve my immune system. On the third day I had no coughing symptoms. My coughing didn’t fade slowly, it simply disappeared.”

Another natural remedy available at health food stores would be slippery elm capsules and syrup. This tree, which grows all over North America, has been used for centuries to treat coughs.

Slippery elm helps heal internal mucosal tissues, such as the esophagus. It is often recommended as a restorative herb for people who suffer from prolonged flu. You can use slippery elm to soothe sore throat, coughs, and a hoarse voice, according to the “How Stuff Works” Web site (howstuffworks.com). Slippery Elm capsules and syrup are available at the health food store or online at www.iherbs.com.

Chronic coughers can take other measures as well to calm a stubborn cough, including using a humidifier to keep airway tissues hydrated and drinking eight glasses of water a day to support hydration efforts. Many doctors and nutritionists also recommend taking at least 1,000 milligrams of Vitamin C every day to help fight low-grade infection and promote tissue healing, and sipping hot water with honey combined with a dash of white pepper.

Dr. Ritchie also suggests that when a cough persists beyond four weeks, it may be time to visit the doctor. Long-term coughing may be an indication of more serious underlying conditions such as chronic bronchitis or exposure to chemical fumes.