Coughing is a completely natural reflex that is used to clear the lungs and airway of debris. Coughing can happen in response to a variety of different conditions from debris like smoke in the air to a lung infection. However, you may notice that if you’re sick with a cough, your cough may last longer than other illness symptoms. This is called a lingering cough, and it is unfortunately very common. Keep reading to learn more about what causes a lingering cough and treatment options to get rid of one.
If you’re suffering from a cough and in need of fast symptom relief, walk into AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst. We offer same-day cough treatment at our walk-in clinic in Lyndhurst, NJ. We treat patients of all ages with no appointment needed. Just walk in when it’s convenient, or schedule your visit in advance below.
How Long Does a Cough Usually Last For?
If you have a cough, the underlying cause of your symptom is what determines how long your cough will last. Some coughs are only temporary and will go away within a day. However, most coughs that are caused by an illness like a cold or mild viral infection will last for about a week. Coughs can linger for longer if secondary infections form, or if you suffer from sinus drainage called post-nasal drip which can cause throat irritation and lead to a long term cough.
Treatment Options for a Lingering Cough
A lingering cough can sometimes clear up on its own. Proper at-home care and support with over the counter medications will typically resolve the cough slowly. Drinking warm liquids to soothe the throat, decongestants to clear up post-nasal drip and clear out any lung congestion, and cough suppressants can all be helpful for clearing up a cough.
When You Should Seek Medical Care for a Cough
If you have a cough that just won’t go away, it may be time to seek further treatment from a medical professional. While coughs can linger longer than other illness symptoms in some cases, a severe cough or a cough worsening over time may indicate a condition that requires specialized treatment.
Identifying the underlying cause of the cough is the only way to effectively treat it. If your cough is worsening over time, you have additional symptoms like a fever or trouble breathing, or you’re coughing up discolored mucus, it’s time to seek medical care for treatment.
Walk Into AFC Lyndhurst for Rapid Same-Day Cough Treatment
A cough can sometimes linger longer than other illness symptoms. While this is often a normal occurrence, and your cough can resolve on its own, cases of a severe or worsening cough should always be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out a more severe medical condition. If you’re suffering from a cough, you can count on AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst for rapid same-day care.
At AFC Lyndhurst, our walk-in clinic offers same-day diagnosis and treatment for coughs, without long wait times. We have competitive rates for patients paying out-of-pocket for their medical care, and accept most medical insurance plans. We treat patients of all ages, and never require that patients schedule an appointment in advance, simply walk in for rapid same-day treatment. Walk in today, or give our team a call at (201) 345-3839. to learn more about the services we provide.
