Most symptoms associated with common respiratory illnesses will resolve within a couple of days. Yet the cough that often accompanies colds, flu, COVID and RSV can linger for weeks.
It’s normal for an acute cough to last anywhere from a few days to three to four weeks. Post viral coughing, which is when you generally feel better but still have a cough, can last up to eight weeks.
During the height of the winter respiratory season, a lingering cough could also be the sign of a new illness.
“If you have fevers, chills, if you are short of breath, are bringing things up when you cough, or you notice that you don’t have the breathing stamina that you used to, this could be a sign of a pneumonia, and you should see a licensed healthcare professional to ensure that there isn’t something beyond a viral cold that is causing your symptoms,” said Melanie Raffoul, MD, chief medical officer, Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care.
How to stop coughing
Treatments for a cough vary because a cough can be caused by many things, not just seasonal viruses. For example, a dry, hacking cough could be caused by allergies, asthma, GERD (reflux), pneumonia, or bronchitis. In children, a hacking cough could be the sign of croup, an upper respiratory infection that can be severe.
Therefore, patients should not start taking any over-the-counter medication marketed towards cough without consulting a clinician first.
“What can be concerning with cough medications is that some are sedative. That can stop you from coughing, but it’s not always safe to stop your urge to cough, and some can raise your blood pressure. It’s always important to review any new medications including supplements and over-the-counter medications with a clinician to make sure you’re not missing any side effects or potentially dangerous combinations,” said Dr. Raffoul.
Those looking for relief can try other options first. These can include:
- Starting with humidification: Sit in a steamy room or sauna.
- Saltwater gargling is valuable for treating postnasal drip, which causes cough.
- If you don’t have an allergy to honey, honey can be used as a natural cough suppressant. Honey should only be given to those over 1, and always consult your pediatrician before giving a child honey.
- Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.
While many coughs go away eventually with at home remedies, others warrant the use of an antibiotic such as strep throat, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Anytime kids or babies have a cough, always ask your pediatrician for guidance. Humidification and hydration are important for young patients too, but over-the-counter cough medicines are not recommended and can be dangerous.
When to go to urgent care
Some warning signs to seek medical care right away include shortness of breath and coughing up dark colored mucus. Even if you are generally feeling OK, but don’t feel 100%, it doesn’t hurt to get an evaluation.
Find a Walk-In or Urgent Care location near you.
