What should you know about cough and catarrh?

Catarrh describes excess or thick mucus, a blocked nose, throat clearing or a feeling of mucus at the back of the throat. Postnasal drip can trigger a cough, especially when lying down. Allergic rhinitis may cause sneezing and itchy eyes, while sinusitis can add facial pressure or reduced smell. Acid reflux can irritate the throat and cause coughing without much mucus. A cough that continues after an infection, or keeps returning, may need review for chronic cough or an airway problem.

Drink fluids regularly, rest, and avoid smoke, vaping, dust and strongly scented products. Saline nasal spray or a gentle nasal rinse may help loosen mucus; use sterile or appropriately prepared water for rinsing. Raising your head slightly at night can reduce drainage into the throat. Warm drinks may soothe irritation. A pharmacist can help you choose an option suited to your symptoms and existing conditions; check before combining cold remedies.

Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, chest pain, confusion, coughing blood, or difficulty swallowing saliva. Arrange medical review if symptoms are worsening, the cough disrupts sleep, you have persistent fever, wheezing, repeated episodes, or symptoms that do not settle. Facial swelling, severe one-sided facial pain or marked weakness also warrants prompt assessment.

Ask whether the pattern fits postnasal drip, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, acid reflux or another cause. Mention when the cough began, whether mucus is present, what makes it worse, and any wheeze, fever, heartburn or breathlessness. Ask whether you need an examination, testing or a treatment review.