Heatwaves and Cough Relief

New Study Finds Heatwaves Heighten Cough Sensitivity While Salt Aerosols Reduce It

A multi-institutional study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that the dry air accompanying heatwaves can dehydrate airway mucus, causing it to collapse onto cilia and increasing cough sensitivity in ways associated with asthma and cystic fibrosis. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 10 people with refractory chronic cough, inhaled alkaline magnesium-salt aerosols reduced daily coughing by a placebo-adjusted 59%, with benefits persisting for one to three weeks, though the small sample warrants further study. The researchers linked the findings to growing exposure to dry air from heatwaves, urbanization and indoor living, while noting that older adults with respiratory conditions face heightened risks during extreme heat. Separate public-health guidance emphasizes that cold, dry or rapidly changing weather, pollen, pollution, dust, mold and respiratory infections can aggravate asthma; patients should follow prescribed treatment plans, carry reliever inhalers, identify personal triggers and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

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