Why did the cough last?

A dry cough, which often occurs with acute respiratory infections, can become protracted and chronic if measures are not taken to treat it. This can happen in both children and adults. The causes of a persistent cough can be different, and in this article we will look at some of them, as well as methods of treating this unpleasant symptom.

The first reason for a lingering cough is the flow of mucus from the nasopharynx into the bronchi. This may occur due to dysfunction of the respiratory system, for example, with bronchial asthma or chronic bronchitis. In this case, coughing is one of the ways to clear the airways of accumulated mucus.

The second reason for a persistent cough is bronchitis. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that can be caused by either a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms of bronchitis include a severe cough, often producing phlegm, shortness of breath and chest pain.

The third reason for a lingering cough is pharyngitis. Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the back of the throat that can be caused by either a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms of pharyngitis include a sore throat, dry cough, and difficulty swallowing.

The fourth cause of persistent cough is otitis media. Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear that can be caused by either a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms of otitis media include ear pain, hearing loss, and a dry cough.

It should be noted that a persistent cough can be caused by other reasons, such as smoking, an allergic reaction, etc.

There are many methods to treat a persistent cough. One effective method is the use of mucolytic agents. Mucolytics thin mucus and help cough it up. Currently, doctors are increasingly prescribing mucolytic expectorants based on Carbocysteine ​​to treat cough, especially in children.

In addition, there are folk remedies that can help with a persistent cough. For example, you can drink herbal tea with honey and lemon, do inhalations with essential oils, mustard compresses on the chest, etc. However, it must be remembered that the use of folk remedies must be agreed with a doctor in order to avoid possible complications.

In conclusion, a persistent cough is a serious symptom that needs to be treated. The causes of a persistent cough can be different, and for proper treatment it is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis. You should not self-medicate, especially if the cough lasts longer than 2-3 weeks. In this case, you need to consult a doctor to undergo additional examinations and determine the cause of the lingering cough. Be healthy!