Humidifiers are a great way to add moisture to the air and can help relieve coughs and congestion caused by a cold. They can also help reduce lung problems and ease the discomfort of colds and the flu. However, it is not recommended for people with an asthma-related cough, and those with allergies should check with their doctor before using a humidifier. Using a humidifier at home can help break down mucus so it can be expelled when you cough, as well as relieve nasal congestion.
There are five types of humidifiers available, and pediatricians often recommend using a humidifier at night to help children with an upper respiratory infection. Warm steam humidifiers are more likely to encourage bacterial growth and require more cleaning than cold steam humidifiers, so it is safer to choose cold steam humidifiers for children. Dehumidifiers are generally not useful for calming a cough, as higher humidity can help alleviate symptoms caused by irritants or inflammation. If you don't want to worry about the maintenance and costs of a humidifier, consider taking a hot shower instead.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that dry air can wreak havoc on respiratory health, and a humidifier can be an effective natural cough remedy or a preventive measure. The CDC recommends using a humidifier to help alleviate symptoms of Covid-19 and help shorten the duration of illness. So what does a humidifier do for a cough? Expert opinions vary on exactly how humidifiers relieve cough and cold symptoms, but they are generally seen as an effective way to reduce coughing.
