

Non-pharmacological interventions for chronic cough: The past, present and future. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. If your cough is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as fever, shortness of breath, or chest pain, get medical attention. But it can be a symptom of a more serious condition such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Can a cough be a symptom of something serious?Ī cough with no other symptoms is usually not a cause for concern.

But if you have bronchitis, it may take several weeks to months for the mucus to clear. For example, if you have a cold, the phlegm may last for a week or two. Phlegm, the thick mucus that’s coughed up, typically lasts as long as the underlying condition. A wet cough may be a symptom of an infection, while a dry cough is often due to irritation. What is the difference between a wet and dry cough?Ī wet cough brings up mucus from your lungs, while a dry cough doesn’t. But a chronic cough typically lasts longer than 8 weeks in adults and 4 weeks in children. How long does a cough last?Īn acute cough caused by an infection or irritant will usually improve within 3 weeks. If you have a cough that’s persistent or happens with other concerning symptoms, get medical attention.īelow are some frequently asked questions about when to see a doctor for your cough. These home remedies should only be used for mild coughs. Examples include cigarette smoke, dust, and chemical fumes. Avoid environmental irritants: Try to stay away from things that could lead to further irritation.Try using a humidifier or standing in a warm, steamy shower. Extra moisture: Adding additional humidity to the air may help soothe your throat when it becomes irritated from coughing.Honey shouldn’t be given to children under 1 year old due to the risk of infant botulism, a rare but potentially fatal illness. Warm water or tea with lemon and honey may also help. Warm drinks: Teas or broths can thin your mucus and reduce irritation.

But don’t give these to young children, as they can be a choking hazard.
#Three days later go see a doctor skin
your lips face appear white or gray (those with darker skin tones).your lips or face appear blue in color (those with lighter skin tones).pain or pressure in your chest that’s persistent.Symptoms of serious COVID-19 illness that you should get immediate medical attention for include: This typically happens 2 to 14 days after symptoms begin. Some people may develop severe disease due to COVID-19. digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.If you have a mild case of COVID-19, you may choose to use cough medications or other home remedies to help ease your cough.Īlong with a cough, other possible symptoms of COVID-19 include:

But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that in some cases, it can be wet. The incubation period for COVID-19 can be between 2 to 14 days with an average of 5 to 6 days.Ī cough that’s associated with COVID-19 is usually dry. A cough is a common symptom of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), the illness caused by the novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
