Not all coughs are the same, and choosing the right product depends on the type of cough you have.
Dry cough
It produces no mucus and usually feels like an irritation or tickle in the throat. A cough suppressant, such as dextromethorphan, helps calm the urge to cough.
Wet cough
This is a productive cough that brings up mucus from the chest. An expectorant, such as guaifenesin, helps loosen mucus in the airways so it is easier to clear. Drinking enough fluids helps it work better.
Products that combine both
Some products combine a suppressant and an expectorant, such as TESALON TESAPERLAS, which contains dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Always read the label, follow the dose indicated and avoid taking several products at once that repeat the same ingredient.
When to see a doctor
- The cough lasts more than three weeks or gets worse instead of better
- Shortness of breath, chest pain or fever appear
- There is unexplained weight loss
- You cough up blood
Seek urgent care if there is severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, a high fever (over 102 °F or 39 °C), confusion or fainting, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, or you cough up blood.
