Most coughs are just a mild nuisance during cold and flu season or even when water goes down the wrong way. But, according to Parade, certain coughs should never be ignored, especially since COVID has made people more cautious.
Dr. Bryan Cochran, a family doctor with MedStar Health, says any cough lasting more than three weeks without other common cold symptoms needs attention.
This kind of cough can be a signal that something more serious, like an infection or even cancer, could be going on, according to Parade.
There are different types of persistent coughs. Parade explains that a cough lasting three to eight weeks is called a “lingering cough,” often linked to an unresolved infection or irritation.
If a cough goes on for more than eight weeks, it’s labeled a “chronic cough.” Chronic coughs, Parade notes, can be tied to various health issues, from asthma to acid reflux, or even serious lung conditions.
Dr. Cochran also points out that not all cough symptoms are clear indicators of severity, even if they include coughing up blood or sound unusual. Parade shares his advice that only a doctor can determine the true cause, as relying on the sound or sensation alone isn’t reliable.
For those experiencing a random, persistent cough with no other symptoms, Parade says Dr. Cochran advises making an appointment with your doctor.
Although cough medications might not always help, knowing the underlying cause can help doctors provide the best treatment plan.
If the cough is due to acid reflux, Parade shares that simple changes like adjusting meal times, sleeping at an incline, and avoiding smoking could provide relief.
As Parade emphasizes, keeping track of your cough and discussing it with a healthcare provider can make all the difference, especially for coughs that linger or worsen over time.