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Cough: Care Instructions

Overview

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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?

  • 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.

  • Prop up your head on pillows to help you breathe and ease a dry cough.

  • Try cough drops or hard candy to soothe a dry or sore throat.

  • 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?

../images/Call-for-help_icn.jpgCall 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

 

  • You have severe trouble breathing.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

 

  • You cough up blood.

 

  • You have new or worse trouble breathing.

 

  • You have a new or higher fever.

 

  • You have a new rash.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

 

  • You cough more deeply or more often, especially if you notice more mucus or a change in the color of your mucus.

 

  • You have new symptoms, such as a sore throat, an earache, or sinus pain.

 

  • You do not get better as expected.

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.

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