A cough that lingers for weeks, but seems to come and go, can be confusing and disruptive. One day, your throat feels clear and your breathing is normal. Next, you’re stuck in a cycle of dry coughing or throat clearing with no obvious reason. So, what causes a cough that comes and goes, and when should you be concerned? Coughing is your body’s natural reflex to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or pathogens. While an occasional cough is normal, a persistent or recurring cough may signal an underlying issue that needs medical attention.
For same-day cough treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek. Our team can diagnose your condition and plan the best treatment possible. Simply walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
Common Causes of a Cough That Comes and Goes
1. Postnasal Drip
One of the most frequent causes of a recurring cough is postnasal drip, where mucus from your sinuses drips down the back of your throat. This often worsens at night or in the morning and can be triggered by allergies, colds, or sinus infections. Signs to look for include:
- Throat clearing
- Runny nose or congestion
- Worsens after lying down
2. Allergies or Irritants
Environmental allergies– like pollen, pet dander, mold, or dust– can cause a chronic, intermittent cough. Smoke, pollution, or strong odors may also act as irritants, especially if you’re sensitive to airborne particles. Signs to look for include:
- Seasonal pattern or flare-ups indoors
- Sneezing, itchy eyes, or nasal congestion
- Cough triggered by environment changes
3. Asthma
Asthma isn’t always marked by wheezing. In some cases, especially with cough-variant asthma, the primary symptom is a dry, lingering cough that worsens at night, during exercise, or after exposure to cold air. Signs to look for include:
- Cough triggered by physical activity or allergens
- Tightness in the chest
- Breathing feels shallow or strained at times
4. Acid Reflux (GERD)
Stomach acid that rises into the esophagus can irritate the throat and vocal cords, causing a chronic cough. This type of cough often occurs after eating or while lying down. Signs to look for include:
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Cough worse at night or after meals
5. Lingering Respiratory Infection
A viral cold, flu, or bronchitis can cause airway inflammation that persists for weeks even after the other symptoms resolve. This is known as post-viral cough and typically improves with time. Signs to look for include:
- History of a recent illness
- Intermittent coughing fits
- Gradual improvement over weeks
When To Visit Urgent Care For a Lingering Cough
While many causes of a recurring cough are minor, some require prompt attention. Visit an urgent care center if:
- The cough lasts more than 3 weeks
- It interrupts your sleep or daily activities
- You cough up blood or mucus
- You have shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain
- Over-the-counter remedies aren’t helping
A medical provider can evaluate your symptoms, listen to your lungs, and may order imaging tests to determine the cause. Treatment might include inhalers, allergy medications, antacids, or antibiotics depending on the diagnosis.
When Walk-In Cough Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek
A cough that comes and goes can be caused by something as simple as seasonal allergies or as complex as undiagnosed asthma or acid reflux. If you’re unsure why it’s happening, don’t wait it out. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek for a fast, professional evaluation. Getting answers can bring peace of mind and the relief you need to breathe easier. No appointments are required– just stop by during operating hours at your convenience. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about cough treatment, or other services we provide, please contact our team directly at (303) 692-8000.
