Lung cancer cough

[tilstongal]

Hi,

Does anyone have any tips for controlling the lung cancer cough? I find it so awful that when I feel up to seeing my friends the evening is ruined by my hacking cough. I have tried many cough linctus and prescribed oramorph linctus and codeine linctus but all with not great results.

Thanks,

Lorna

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Lorna

Welcome to the forum. I am sorry you are having no relief from your hacking cough. I have placed a few suggestions below which you may have already tried, but there may be one that might be helpful.

Manuka honey , either on its own or mixing it up with warm milk

Herbal tea: Chamomile, Eucalyptus and peppermint, or adding lemon.

Gargle salt water may help the irritation

Try breathing in steam from hot water - add 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus oil, or tea tree oil, keep your head covered with a towel for a better effect.

Chewing ginger slices or adding this to hot water to drink

Aorma diffuser humidifier ( used day or night, where you can add oils to the water and it releases a soothing mist ) some come with night lights where you can use it during the night or before you go out. These can be bought from Argos, online or in some chemists.

I am sure your friends value seeing you and would more than empathise with your cough , however do understand it is not pleasant for you and perhaps difficult to enjoy the company. Perhaps choosing an environment that you are free of irritants, strong smells and dust.

We have a free nurse led helpline if you wish to discuss anything on

0800 358 7200

Kind regards

The Roy Castle Support Team

[tilstongal in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

Thank you for your useful suggestions.

Lorna