When it comes to cold or COVID symptoms, a cough can be especially frustrating. A cough is uncomfortable, but it can also be disruptive when it won't quit. If you’ve had a lingering cough, you might be looking for ways to get rid of it, and I get it.
But just so you know, a cough isn’t always bad; it’s a reflex that protects our airways and lungs against irritants like dust, germs, and mucus. And occasional coughing is completely normal, according to the American Lung Association. That said, you shouldn't just shrug off a cough.
Some people may develop a cough after becoming infected with COVID-19. A COVID cough is dry and persistent, according to Sioux Falls Specialty Hospital. It is typically accompanied by other symptoms, including chest pain, fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath.
Meet the experts: Michael Hanak, MD, is an assistant professor of family medicine at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. Keri Peterson, MD, is an internal medicine doctor and WH advisor. However, less serious causes of coughing also exist.
Certain medications could be to blame, Dr. Environmental triggers like dust, mold, or other pollutants could also contribute, either through lung irritation or postnasal drip. Acid reflux is another potential trigger.
If you’ve been coughing for more than two weeks, Dr. Hanak suggests seeing your doctor for additional testing or recommendations. But if you’ve just started hacking, you can try to soothe your throat with these remedies.
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