A cough is caused by irritation or inflammation in the airways, triggering a reflex action to clear the throat or lungs of mucus, dust, allergens, or other foreign substances. It is a natural defence mechanism that helps protect the respiratory system. Common causes include viral infections such as the cold or flu, which often lead to a buildup of mucus in the airways.
Other causes of coughing include allergies, asthma, sinusitis, or exposure to smoke and other irritants. In some cases, a persistent cough may be a sign of an underlying condition such as acid reflux, bronchitis, or a respiratory infection. Identifying the cause is important for choosing the most effective treatment and ensuring proper care.
Most coughs improve on their own within a few weeks. To help ease symptoms and aid recovery, you can:
- Get plenty of rest
- Drink more water and other fluids
- Avoid going out in cold, dry weather
- Take an over-the-counter cough remedy, such as cough syrups or lozenges, to soothe your throat.
Several remedies can help relieve a cough, depending on its cause and type.
- For a dry cough, soothing treatments, such as cough syrups, cough sweets and warm drinks with honey and lemon can help ease irritation in the throat. Staying hydrated is also important, as it keeps the throat moist and supports the body in clearing mucus more effectively.
- For chesty coughs, cough medicines can target symptoms and offer quick comfort helping you carry on with your day. Hydration is also important to help keep the throat moist.
If a cough persists, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to see your GP as they can diagnose and treat the cause behind your coughing.
The best cough remedy depends on the type of cough you have (e.g., dry, chesty, or tickly) and your personal preference for how to take it (e.g., syrup, lozenge, or spray). For dry coughs, suppressants can help, while for chesty coughs, expectorants might be more suitable to help clear mucus. Many products are also specifically formulated as cough medicine for kids. Weldricks Pharmacy offers a broad range of trusted cough treatments. If you are unsure which product is most appropriate for your symptoms, please speak to one of our friendly pharmacists for personalised guidance.
If your cough is causing discomfort, you can speak to your GP at any time.
You should generally see a doctor about your cough if it lasts longer than three weeks, as persistent coughing may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
If your cough is also accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, a high fever, or unexplained weight loss, it is important to speak to your GP or call emergency services.
Other signs to watch for include a worsening cough despite treatment, night sweats, or a cough that disrupts your sleep or daily activities significantly. Early intervention by healthcare professionals can help diagnose the cause behind your cough and ensure you receive tailored treatment.
In summary, whilst most coughs clear up on their own, it's advisable to see a doctor if your cough:
- Lasts for more than three weeks
- Is very severe or rapidly worsening
- Causes you to cough up blood
- Is accompanied by a high fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
- Makes you feel generally unwell or very tired
- Occurs with unexplained weight loss
If you are concerned about a child's cough, especially if they are very young, seek medical advice promptly.
Humans cough as a natural reflex to protect and clear the airways. When something irritates the lining of the throat, windpipe, or lungs, nerve endings in the respiratory tract send signals to the brain. In response, the brain triggers a strong, sudden release of air from the lungs to force the irritant out. This process helps keep the airways clear and ensures proper breathing. Irritants include mucus, dust, smoke, or foreign particles.
Coughing also plays an important role in fighting off infections. During a cold or flu, excess mucus and inflammation can build up in the airways. Coughing helps remove this mucus, along with viruses or bacteria, as part of the body's natural defence system. While usually helpful, coughing can become uncomfortable or disruptive, especially if it lingers. Coughing can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying health issue.
