Does the thyroid make you cough?
The thyroid is a gland located at the bottom of the neck that is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism.
Although a cough cannot be directly attributed to the thyroid, certain dysfunctions of this gland can trigger symptoms such as hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, and thus cause a cough.
In addition, if the thyroid tends to enlarge, it can put pressure on the trachea and thus trigger coughing.
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What does a thyroid cough feel like?
A cough caused by the thyroid can be similar to a classic cough but can also have definite characteristics.
We can thus feel:
- hoarseness or change in pitch of the voice
- difficulty swallowing or feeling like you have something stuck in the throat
- a persistent and chronic cough that does not respond to usual treatments
- a cough that gets worse when lying down
- a cough with certain symptoms related to thyroid dysfunction such as fatigue, weight change, or insomnia.
Is a thyroid cough dry?
A cough caused by the thyroid can be both dry and productive.
Dry cough does not generate mucus, unlike productive cough.
It is most common when thyroid dysfunction causes irritation or inflammation in the throat and airways.
For this reason, there is no mucus production.
This type of cough can be triggered by an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) which increases nerve activity in the airways.
It can also be caused by an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) which decreases hormone production and triggers respiratory tract inflammation.
A productive cough is rarer when the thyroid is involved.
But if a nodule is present or a goiter has formed, pressure is exerted on the trachea or esophagus causing mucus to build up and a productive cough.
Do thyroid nodules hurt when you cough
A thyroid nodule is a mass that forms on the gland.
These nodules are mostly benign (non-cancerous).
Although they are not really a problem or cause pain, some people may feel discomfort or pressure in the affected neck area.
However, it is extremely rare that they become painful when coughing.
Coughing can cause muscle fatigue in the neck and, if the nodules are large, they can cause discomfort or pain when you cough or even with a simple movement of the head.
How to cure thyroid cough
Treatment may be initiated depending on the underlying causes of the cough.
The most effective way to treat a cough caused by the thyroid is to identify and treat thyroid dysfunction.
So, if hyperthyroidism is the cause, certain medications may be prescribed to slow down hormone production.
In the case of hypothyroidism, replacement therapy can help correct the hormonal imbalance.
In some cases, surgery should be considered to remove all or part of the thyroid, especially if a nodule interferes with swallowing or causes coughing.
Natural remedies for thyroid cough
Although medications and sometimes surgery are the most common treatments for a cough generated by the thyroid, some natural remedies can help alleviate the symptoms.
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Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also called Indian ginseng, is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.
It is well known to hold anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties.
It has also been studied for its potential to regulate the thyroid gland and reduce the symptoms of its dysfunction.
Studies suggest that ashwagandha (#ad) helps reduce inflammation of the thyroid while normalizing hormone levels.
With regard to cough, it relieves inflammation of the throat and airways, which tempers a dry cough.
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Basil
Basil, also known as tulsi, is a plant widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.
It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-stimulating properties.
It is also known to have a positive impact on the thyroid.
It helps reduce inflammation while regulating hormone levels.
It also has a protective effect and helps prevent damage caused by toxins.
In the case of a persistent cough, holy basil (#ad) helps reduce the inflammation of the throat and airways.
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Ginger
Ginger is well known for its medicinal properties.
It provides anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial action.
It also has a very positive effect on the thyroid by reducing its inflammation and regulating hormone levels.
It also protects it from free radicals that can damage it.
In the natural cough treatment, ginger (#ad) helps reduce the inflammation of the airways and throat.
It also has a warming action, which relieves congestion and improves breathing.
Essential oil for dry cough
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Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus essential oil contains a compound called cineole which gives it its expectorant properties.
When inhaled, it clears the airways, improves breathing, and reduces the severity of the cough.
It is very effective in relieving dry cough coming from a thyroid disorder.
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Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which gives it its expectorant properties.
When inhaled, it opens the airways, facilitates breathing, and tempers cough.
It is also very suitable for treating dry cough linked to the thyroid because its anti-inflammatory action significantly reduces irritation of the throat and bronchi.
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Lemon
Lemon essential oil contains limonene and citral, giving it expectorant properties that reduce the severity of coughs.
It is indicated to treat a dry thyroid cough because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Note that it is also rich in vitamin C and has major antioxidant properties.
It also provides a detox effect on the body, which is very beneficial for the thyroid.
Some additional tips
– Maintaining optimal hydration by drinking enough fluids thins mucus so it can pass more easily
– Inhalations will really help you thin mucus and reduce inflammation in the throat and airways
– Considering exercises to strengthen the throat by targeting the muscles involved in speaking and swallowing will help you reduce the frequency of coughing fits
– Practicing yoga or meditation will allow you to control stress for better overall health while reducing symptoms related to thyroid dysfunction.
