When You Can’t Stop Coughing: Causes, Remedies, and Seeking Medical Attention
Coughing is a natural reflex of the body designed to clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and foreign particles. However, it can be frustrating and concerning when that persistent cough just won't quit. A cough that won't quit should never be ignored, whether it's due to a common cold, allergies, or something more serious.
Why Can’t I Stop Coughing?
A chronic or persistent cough, lasting for three weeks or more, can include symptoms including dryness, hoarseness, chest discomfort, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. These types of coughs can have various causes.
Infections
- Viral Infections: Common colds, flu, COVID-19, RSV or other respiratory viruses can trigger persistent coughs.
- Bacterial Infections: Conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia may lead to prolonged coughing.
Immunological Causes
- Allergies: Seasonal allergies can cause chronic cough due to postnasal drip or airway inflammation.
Pulmonary Causes
- Asthma: Chronic inflammation of the airways can result in persistent coughing.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Emphysema or chronic bronchitis can lead to an ongoing cough.
Gastroesophageal Causes
- Acid Reflux (GERD): Stomach acid refluxing into the throat can cause chronic cough.
Less Common Causes
- Heart Failure: Accumulation of fluid in the lungs can lead to persistent cough.
- Cancer: Rarely, lung cancer may present with a chronic cough.
Home Remedies for Non Stop Coughing
While seeking professional evaluation is crucial, here are some home remedies to ease your discomfort:
Cough Drops and Lozenges
Throat lozenges with menthol can temporarily relieve coughs.
Steam Inhalation
Breathe in steam from a pot or bowl to break up mucus in the lungs.
Humidifier
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and reduce airway irritation.
Over-the-Counter Medications
- Cough suppressants containing dextromethorphan can help.
- Vaporizing ointments like Vicks VapoRub may quiet a cough.
- Antihistamines can manage allergic coughs.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation
If your cough is persisting or you have other concerning symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood, seek medical attention promptly. At AFC Urgent Care, we are here to provide you with the care you need when you need it. Walk in or reserve your time online.
FAQs:
Can I Walk-In for a persistent cough?
Yes! You can visit any AFC Urgent Care center without an appointment. We provide convenient and affordable urgent care services for non-life-threatening medical issues like a persistent cough.
AFC Urgent Care covers a range of services, including onsite x-rays, and treatment for various illnesses and injuries.
Remember, persistent coughs deserve attention. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help and get relief from that nagging cough!
Do you have on-site x-rays?
Yes, if deemed necessary an x-ray, to obtain a clearer understanding of the underlying cause of your cough. With x-rays capabilities onsite, there is no need to be referred elsewhere or wait for results!
Medically reviewed by Nita Singhal, MD, Chief Medical Officer AFC Urgent Care---Updated on 4/4/24
The content provided in this blog is solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or consultation with a healthcare provider. It is not intended to be comprehensive or exhaustive and may not apply to individual medical conditions. For personalized information tailored to your specific situation, please consult your doctor or reach out to us directly for assistance.
