The year 2025 saw a noticeable rise in cases of persistent cough lasting over three months, with patients reporting no significant relief despite using multiple cough medications, including antibiotics. Many of these individuals approached me after trying various treatments under other systems of medicine without success.
These patients typically presented with a productive cough, especially at night, making sleep difficult. The act of lying down often triggered intense coughing spells that came in paroxysms. A throat discomfort—ranging from mild irritation to severe pain—was frequently reported, making it difficult to swallow, even saliva. The cough was worse in the mornings upon waking and would also get triggered during conversation. It was often violent, sometimes causing dribbling of urine while coughing.
Many patients came in a state of desperation, both from the cough and the sleeplessness it caused. On detailed evaluation, a common thread among them was a history of fever preceding the onset of the cough. In most cases, the use of antibiotics seemed to worsen the condition rather than alleviate it.
Clinical examination often revealed scalding in the throat, with the mucous membranes discolored brown rather than red, indicating damage likely from acid reflux rather than infection or inflammation.
The underlying diagnosis in many of these cases turned out to be throat irritation due to acid reflux, often occurring after viral infections. Interestingly, not all patients reported classic gastric symptoms, making the diagnosis of GERD-related cough more challenging.
Role of Homeopathy in GERD-related Persistent Cough
In my clinical experience, homeopathic remedies targeted at acid reflux brought remarkable improvement in most cases. Some of the commonly prescribed medicines include:
- Thuja 1M – A powerful antiviral remedy used to clear any lingering post-viral effects.
- Nux Vomica 200 – One of the most effective antacids in homeopathy, given twice daily to ease acidity.
- Iris Versicolor 200 – Known for its strong anti-reflux properties, especially effective in GERD cases.
- Natrum Phos 6X – A biochemic remedy used to neutralize excess acidity and gas.
- Cantharis 30 – Prescribed for burning and scalding pain in the throat caused by acid burns.
- Pulsatilla 30 – Given four times a day to manage secondary infections, especially when yellow phlegm is present.
- Merc Sol 200 – Used when there is ulceration, intense night cough, and throat pain.
- Hepar Sulph 30 – Helpful in cases with splinter-like throat pain and thick, tough mucus.
- Sanguinaria 30 – Another excellent remedy for persistent, dry or productive cough, especially when associated with gastric complaints.
Supportive Advice
In addition to the remedies, the following lifestyle modifications were recommended:
- Use two pillows at night to keep the head elevated and prevent reflux.
- Avoid spicy and oily foods, which can aggravate acidity.
Note:
These medicines were prescribed based on individual symptoms and thorough case analysis. We encourage patients not to self-medicate. For personalized care, please consult a qualified homeopathic physician.
Ease Homeopathy
Dr. Sreechithra H
📞 Contact 8884731220