Cough is one of the most common complaints across all age groups, yet its management is often misunderstood. While over-the-counter (OTC) cough syrups are widely available, their indiscriminate use, especially in children, can be ineffective and sometimes harmful.
Most coughs, particularly those caused by viral infections, resolve on their own within 1–2 weeks. The key is to identify the type of cough, target the underlying cause, and use the simplest, safest remedies.
India Today. in exclusively spoke with Dr. Anurag Aggarwal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, to get expert insights on the safe use of cough medicines across ages and how parents and adults can manage coughs without unnecessary medications.
KEY PRINCIPLES FOR COUGH MANAGEMENT
Treat t