Bad cold and cough: what to know

A common cold can inflame the nose and throat, while mucus dripping from the nose can keep triggering a cough. Acute bronchitis can present with cough after a respiratory infection. Allergic rhinitis may cause sneezing, an itchy nose, and a cough from post-nasal drainage. Asthma can present with cough, wheeze, chest tightness, or symptoms triggered by exercise or allergens. Acid reflux can irritate the throat and cause cough, especially after meals or when lying down.

A cough that continues after other cold symptoms settle, repeatedly disturbs sleep, or brings up blood should be assessed. Bronchiolitis is a particular concern in young children, where feeding and breathing can change quickly.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and use warm drinks to soothe an irritated throat. Saline nasal rinses or drops may ease a blocked nose. Avoid smoking and smoky air. Follow label directions for any over-the-counter medicine and check with a pharmacist if you take other medicines, are pregnant, or are treating a child. Antibiotics do not treat every cough, so a clinician should decide whether they are appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, chest pain, confusion, fainting, or coughing blood. Arrange an assessment if breathing becomes harder, fever or weakness is worsening, you cannot keep fluids down, or the cough is not settling. A baby or young child with fast or laboured breathing, pauses in breathing, poor feeding, or unusual sleepiness needs urgent care.

Could this be a common cold, bronchitis, asthma, allergy, or reflux? How should I monitor my breathing? Would an examination or inhaler assessment help? Which medicines are suitable for my age and other health conditions?