Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : August 1, 2016 10:27 AM IST
Is coughing for a week normal?
Do I need to go to a doctor if I have been coughing for last five days?
How long does a cough last usually?
These are some of the things most people worry about when they cough as it usually doesn t subside easily. However, if you thought a cough could last around a week or 10 days, then you are wrong. Because according to a 2013 study published in the Journal Annals of family medicine [1], it is proved that a cough can last for around 18 days, which is roughly three weeks. But if you have a persistent cough, which lasts more than eight weeks, then you should consult a doctor. Here are ten reasons you should NOT ignore a chronic cough.
According to Dr Ratan Kumar Vaish, Aastha Multi-Specialty Clinic, with seasonal changes most people fall prey to a cough and cold. In some cases, even viral fever and poor immunity could cause a cough, which takes around two weeks to subside. But if you have a fever along with a cough and cold or experience chills, then consult a doctor immediately to rule out any viral infection.
Also, seasonal changes can lead to allergies, which can cause a cough, but it usually subsides in a day or two. If you have difficulty in breathing or have a severe headache, then consult a doctor. And never take antibiotics without consulting your doctor as in some cases; a cough could be due to a viral infection and not a bacterial infection. In such a case, taking antibiotics might not provide any relief but only worsen the condition. If you are suffering from a cough, here are few tips you should follow to ease the symptoms at home.
You can either drink a cup of warm ginger tea to soothe the respiratory tract and relieve a cough. This is because, ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which not only improve your condition but also boost your immunity.
If you have a sore throat along with a cough, then drink a glass of kadha prepared from whole spices, some tulsi leaves, honey and water to soothe an irritated throat and get rid of a cough as well. Here are more natural remedies for a cough and cold that really work!
Image Source: Shutterstock
References:
Ebell MH, Lundgren J, Youngpairoj S. How long does a cough last? Comparing patients' expectations with data from a systematic review of the literature. Ann Fam Med. 2013 Jan-Feb;11(1):5-13. doi: 10.1370/afm.1430. Review. PubMed PMID: 23319500; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3596033.
