Ignoring a chronic cough can lead to numerous complications. In particular, chronic coughing can result in pain in your throat, muscle pain in your chest, headaches, lack of sleep, and feelings of fatigue. In some cases, chronic coughing may lead to vomiting or rupture of small blood vessels located behind your eyes.
Most seasonal coughs are mild and resolve on their own.
New Delhi: It is not unusual for a person to experience a persistent cough when we enter the change from one season to another (for example, from hot weather to cold or dry to humid). We may have difficulty adjusting to the new temperature or humidity level. The most common reasons for developing a seasonal cough are due to viral infections (like the cold), throat irritation caused by the dry air, exposure to dust/dust allergies, air pollution, and/or a sudden decrease or increase in temperature. In addition, some people develop a cough as a result of a sinus infection, where mucus drips down the back of the throat and triggers a cough. Asthma can also worsen during the seasonal transition. If you have a weakened immune system, have allergies, or have another type of breathing problem, you are at a higher risk of developing a seasonal cough.
This year, when the season changes, Dr Ameeth. H, MD (Tuberculosis and Respiratory Medicine), DM Pulmonary Medicine, Consultant Pulmonologist, Apollo Clinic, Kompally, decodes when an excessive cough becomes a cause of concern.
It is important to realize that there is a difference between a mild cough that is typical for the time of year and a cough that may cause concern and be more serious. A mild cough that would be typical for the time of year is typically dry or only has small amounts of phlegm, could last between several days and two weeks, usually has some other symptoms (the same as a mild cold, sore throat, or sneezing), and is usually without high fever, any severe shortness of breath, or medication required to maintain daily activities. Conversely, a cough that is to be taken more seriously could last longer, be more severe, and disrupt sleep; have a high fever, chest pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood; or even cause weight loss. If you see any of these signs, it can be an indication that the cough may be more than just a mild cough and may need a doctor’s attention.
Persistent coughing is a red flag if it has lasted for more than two weeks continuously and is associated with warning signs. If you have difficulty breathing, feel tightness in your chest, cough up blood, have a high fever, or feel so weak that you cannot carry on your daily routine, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Also, people with asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, or an immune deficiency should exercise extra caution because a mild cough from infection has the potential to be a more serious infection in this population group.
Many individuals want to know what is an excessive period of time for having a cough. In general, a cough that lasts fewer than three weeks is considered acute and typically results from a viral infection. A cough that persists for three to eight weeks is categorised as a subacute cough. Coughs that last beyond eight weeks are considered chronic coughs and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Additionally, if you have a cough that is mild in nature but persists beyond two weeks, you should seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause or etiology of your cough.
Ignoring a chronic cough can lead to numerous complications. In particular, chronic coughing can result in pain in your throat, muscle pain in your chest, headaches, lack of sleep, and feelings of fatigue. In some cases, chronic coughing may lead to vomiting or rupture of small blood vessels located behind your eyes. Additionally, some conditions, such as asthma, tuberculosis (TB), lung infection, and/or acid reflux (GERD), may present with a chronic cough, and delaying treatment for these conditions can cause them to worsen and result in a more complicated course later. An early diagnosis will typically yield the best outcome.
The following measures will help reduce your chance of developing a seasonal cough and/or respiratory infection. First of all, maintain good hygiene by making sure to wash your hands often, avoid, if possible, being close to anyone who has a cough or a cold, and wear a mask if you find yourself in a crowded area or a dusty area. Make sure to drink plenty of warm fluids to keep your throat moist (for example, water, soup, or herbal tea). Eating a healthy diet that contains adequate amounts of fruits & vegetables, along with an adequate protein intake, will help strengthen your body’s immune system. Being active with regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and managing stress will also help to support your body’s immune system.
People who have been diagnosed with allergies and/or asthma should continue taking their prescribed medications regularly and using their inhalers regularly during seasonal changes. Try to avoid known allergy triggers, such as dust, secondhand smoke, and strong fragrances, by keeping your home as free from these substances as possible and by making sure it is well ventilated.
Most seasonal coughs are mild and resolve on their own. However, if your cough persists beyond two weeks, worsens, or is associated with warning signs, do not ignore it. Early medical evaluation can help identify the cause and prevent complications. Staying alert, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical care when needed are the best ways to protect your lung health during seasonal changes.
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