Does COVID-19 cause cough?

The cough may be dry or may bring up mucus. It can occur with a sore throat, fever, tiredness, blocked nose, altered taste or smell, or body aches, but symptom patterns vary. Cough is also common with colds, influenza, allergies, asthma, reflux, and other conditions. A cough by itself does not establish that you have COVID-19.

Rest, drink fluids if suitable for you, and avoid smoke or vaping, which can aggravate a cough. Check current local public-health guidance about testing and reducing contact with others if COVID-19 is a possibility. Use over-the-counter cough products only after checking that they suit your age, health conditions, and regular medicines. Monitor whether breathing, hydration, alertness, or chest symptoms are changing.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, blue or grey lips, or a marked decline in your condition. Contact a clinician promptly if your cough is worsening or you have health conditions that increase the need for individual advice.

Ask whether testing is appropriate, what symptom relief is suitable with your current medicines, and which warning signs apply to you. If you have ongoing lung or heart disease, ask whether you need a tailored plan for monitoring symptoms.