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Terrible cough + lost voice: should I drink cold or hot water?

And if the temperature matters, why does it matter? Sometimes cold water feels more soothing, and three days of hot water haven't helped, so I'm curious. Thanks!

5 Answers

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  • Mirage
    Lv 5
    1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    You shouldn't be drinking hot water - warm at the most. Hot water will just irritate your throat and airway even more. If cold water feels soothing - then go for it and enjoy the soothing aspects of it. Just watch that its not too cold - that can irritate your airway, too, and make you cough.

    You don't mention if your cough is dry or productive.

    If it is productive then try taking something that will help you bring up the mucus (guafesin - mucinex or robitussin) - you'll want to try to clear that stuff out of your lungs.

    If your cough is dry then try taking a decongestant which will dry up any post nasal drip that is irritating the back of your throat and making you cough.

    For your lost voice - try gargling with salt water (1/4 tsp salt in 1 cup warm water) - do this at least a few times a day to clean and sooth the back of your throat. Also, try drinking warm tea with honey - the type of tea doesn't really matter just don't brew it very strong - the honey will help sooth your throat also.

    Good luck - hope you feel better soon!

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    well, i was gonna say hot water based on my own comfort choices and everything, but i suggest you give cold water a try if it is more soothing and if hot water hasn't helped. now im no doctor, but thats what i think. hope i helped!

  • 1 decade ago

    Try honey and all the other home remedies. Gargle salt water ect. But you kinda just have to let it pass :( Hope I helped

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Try warm tea with honey

  • 1 decade ago

    how about u try some warm water, it will clear ur throat, then try some honey, it will soothe ur throat...really well.

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