Understanding That Cough

8 REASONS BEHIND THAT PERSISTENT IRRITATION

With the change of season and winter approaching, it won’t be long before families and homes start stocking up on immune boosters, cold and flu medication and antibacterial hand sanitiser in the hope of preventing this year’s viruses and other nasties from circulating. One of the most common gripes at this time of year is an ongoing and relentless cough, which most patients attempt to treat at home with over-the-counter medication. While it can be particularly disruptive, worsening at night to disturb sleep or causing aches and pains in the chest and ribs, a cough is your lungs’ way of dealing with and expelling an irritant. But why exactly are you coughing and are there any underlying concerns you should be looking out for? We break down the eight reasons for coughs and let you know when it might be time to see a doctor.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES

What’s making you cough?

1 COLDS AND FLU

Because the common cold and flu are caused by a virus, you can’t treat the illness with antibiotics. You have to wait it out and take medication to help ease the symptoms if they’re causing any discomfort. This type of cough usually goes on its own or within a week to 10 days.

2 POST-NASAL DRIP