Coughing is a symptom, not a disease. If your cough is persistent it’s worth checking what’s causing it.
A short-term cough is often a viral infection, which will usually clear in a few weeks. Look after yourself by resting, drinking water and taking painkillers if necessary. Veno’s cough medicines can help ease your cough and soothe your throat.
If you’ve been coughing for more than 3 weeks, your GP can help find and treat the underlying cause. It might be a condition that affects your lungs and airways like asthma or postnasal drip, or a long-term infection such as chronic bronchitis.
If your cough is triggered by a certain place, time or activity, you may need to change your environment or medication. Your doctor might advise stopping smoking, for example, or may prescribe anti-allergy medication.
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition that can cause coughing. It happens when stomach acid leaks up your food pipe and irritates your throat. Prevent GORD by managing your eating habits.
Occasionally, a persistent cough is a sign of a more serious condition. Talk to your GP straightaway if you notice additional symptoms such as coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain or weight loss.