An expectorant is a cough medication that loosens and thins phlegm. It's usually used to reduce chest congestion symptoms, particularly if they are due to stubborn mucus build-up.

Unlike a tickly dry cough that doesn't produce thick mucus (phlegm), a chesty cough produces mucus to help decongest blocked airways. 

Original All Fours medicine lubricates your airway helping loosen phlegm, making secretions in your airway thinner. Because this medication loosens phlegm, it causes your cough to be more productive. As a result, you cough up mucus more effectively, clearing your throat.

There's no need to visit your doctor with a cough unless: 

• You've been coughing for more than three weeks.
• It's getting worse.
• You can't stop coughing.
• You have a hacking cough.
• You feel under the weather. 
• You're experiencing chest pain.

You can treat your chesty cough at home by:

• Resting.
• Drinking lots of liquids.
• Remaining at home and avoiding contact with other individuals if you feel feverish or don't feel well enough to do your everyday activities.

Additionally, you can:

• Drink hot honey and lemon (unsuitable for babies under one year).
• Treat pain with ibuprofen and paracetamol.

Honey and lemon may work in a similar way to cough medicines.