Coughing Techniques

 Tip

Keep a box of tissues next to you when using these methods. Wash your hands when you are done.

Controlled coughing

Here's how to do it: 

• Sit on a chair with both feet on the floor.

• Take a slow, deep breath through your nose. Hold for 2 counts.

• Lean forward slightly.

• Cough twice—2 short coughs.

• Relax for a few seconds.

Repeat the steps as needed. 

The “huff” technique

Here's how to do it: 

• Sit on a chair with both feet on the floor.

• Take a slow, deep breath through your nose. Hold for 2 counts.

• To breathe out, open your mouth and make a “huff” sound in your throat. (The same way you might breathe to clean a pair of eyeglasses.)

• Huff 2 to 3 times as you breathe out.

• Relax for a few seconds.

Repeat the steps as needed.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.

When to call the healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:

• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing

• Increased mucus

• Yellow, green, bloody, or smelly mucus

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

• Chills

• Tightness in your chest that does not go away with rest or medicine

• An irregular heartbeat