Overview
A cough is your body's response to something that bothers your throat or airways. Many things can cause a
cough. You might cough because of a cold or the flu, bronchitis, or asthma. Smoking, postnasal drip,
allergies, and stomach acid that backs up into your throat also can cause coughs.
A cough is a symptom, not a disease. Most coughs stop when the cause, such as a cold, goes away. You can take
a few steps at home to cough less and feel better.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results
and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
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Drink lots of water and other fluids. This helps thin the mucus and soothes a dry or sore throat. Honey or
lemon juice in hot water or tea may ease a dry cough. -
Take cough medicine as directed by your doctor.
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Prop up your head on pillows to help you breathe and ease a dry cough.
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Try cough drops or hard candy to soothe a dry or sore throat.
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Do not smoke. Avoid secondhand smoke. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking
programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
When should you call for help?
anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
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Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
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Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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Current as of: September 27, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of
this information.
Related Articles
Chronic Cough with Uncertain Cause (Adult)
A cough from an infection usually gets better in 2 to 3 weeks, but a cough that lasts longer than 8 weeks may be due to other causes. Your health care provider may refer to this as a chronic cough.
Self-Care for Sore Throats
Sore throats happen for many reasons, such as colds, allergies, and infections caused by viruses or bacteria. Your goal for self-care is to reduce your discomfort while giving your throat a chance to heal.
Coughing Techniques
Airway clearance techniques help to remove mucus from the airways. Clearing the airways helps to improve breathing. It also lowers the chance for infection.
Chronic Cough with Uncertain Cause (Child)
A cough caused by an infection, such as a cold, usually gets better in 2 to 3 weeks. A cough that persists longer than 3 to 4 weeks may be due to other causes.
