Sore throat and cough: tips to relieve discomfort in autumn

Autumn is one of the times of year when respiratory problems are most common. Sore throat, cough, hoarseness, congestion, and a feeling of irritation are very frequent symptoms when temperatures drop and there are more sudden changes between cold environments and heated spaces.

Although often minor, these discomforts can be bothersome, disrupt sleep, and make daily life difficult. Understanding why they occur and how to treat them properly helps alleviate symptoms and prevent them from worsening.

Why do sore throats appear in autumn?

The throat is constantly exposed to air, viruses, bacteria, pollution, and temperature changes. In autumn, several factors can irritate it:

• Cold air.

• Dry environments due to heating.

• Sudden changes in temperature.

• Increased circulation of respiratory viruses.

• Reduced ventilation in enclosed spaces.

• Dry mucous membranes.

• Talking too much or straining your voice.

When the mucous membrane of the throat becomes irritated, pain, itching, burning or difficulty swallowing may occur.

Difference between viral, irritative and bacterial sore throat

Viral sore throat

It is the most common type. It is usually accompanied by mucus, cough, sneezing, or general malaise. It typically improves within a few days with symptomatic care.

Irritative pain

It appears due to dryness, smoke, pollution, heating, or vocal strain. It can cause throat clearing and a dry cough.

Bacterial pain

It can cause high fever, white patches, severe pain when swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes. In these cases, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Types of cough

Hacking cough

It does not produce mucus. It is usually irritating and may worsen at night. It is common after colds, temperature changes, or dry environments.

Productive cough

Accompanied by mucus. The body is trying to clear secretions from the respiratory tract. In these cases, it's not always advisable to suppress the cough, but rather to facilitate the expulsion of the mucus.

Nighttime cough

It could be due to a runny nose, dry air, or reflux. It affects sleep and should be addressed according to the cause.

Tips to relieve a sore throat

Maintain good hydration

Drinking water, herbal teas, or broths helps keep the mucous membrane hydrated and reduces irritation.

Avoid dry environments

Using humidifiers or placing containers of water near heat sources can help if the heating dries out the air too much.

No smoking and avoid smoke

Smoke irritates the throat and worsens coughs.

Take honey

Honey can help soothe a sore throat and calm a tickly cough. It should not be used in children under one year old.

Lozenges

They stimulate saliva production and help relieve dryness and itching.

Useful pharmacy products

Depending on the type of symptom, the following may be recommended:

• Throat lozenges with soothing action.

• Oropharyngeal sprays.

• Syrups for dry cough.

• Mucolytics or expectorants for coughs with mucus.

• Nasal saline solutions.

• Propolis, honey, or soothing plants.

• Anti-inflammatories or analgesics, if indicated.

It's important to choose the right product depending on the type of cough. Treating a dry cough is not the same as treating a productive cough.

When to consult

It is recommended to check if:

• There is a high fever.

• The pain is very intense.

• Plaques appear in the throat.

• The cough lasts for more than two weeks.

• There is difficulty breathing.

• There is chest pain.

• The person is a young child, pregnant, or a patient with a chronic illness.

Autumn prevention

To reduce the risk of respiratory discomfort:

• Wash your hands frequently.

• Ventilate enclosed spaces.

• Avoid sudden temperature changes.

• Stay well hydrated.

• Take care of your defenses.

• Rest properly.

Sore throats and coughs are very common ailments in autumn, but choosing the right treatment based on the origin and type of cough is essential to effectively relieve symptoms.

If you have any questions about which product to use, you can ask us at the pharmacy. We'll help you identify the type of cough and find the best solution for you.