Flu and cough symptoms: what to know

Flu may begin with feverishness, chills, tiredness, headache, muscle aches, sore throat and a dry or chesty cough. A cough can linger after other symptoms ease because the breathing tubes remain sensitive. Mucus, wheezing, chest discomfort or breathlessness can point to airway involvement rather than flu alone. A common cold usually has a gentler onset, while acute bronchitis can cause a troublesome cough after a respiratory infection. Reflux, allergies and asthma can also trigger cough without being caused by flu.

The cough itself does not identify one diagnosis. Clinicians consider how suddenly it started, whether breathing is affected, exposure to infection, existing lung conditions, and whether symptoms are improving or worsening.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and avoid smoke or strong fragrances that can provoke coughing. Warm drinks may soothe an irritated throat. Follow label directions for any fever or pain medicine, and check with a pharmacist if you take other medicines, are pregnant, or are treating a child. Cover coughs, wash hands, and stay away from vulnerable people while acutely unwell. Do not start antibiotics without clinical advice; they do not treat viral flu.

Seek urgent help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, severe chest pain, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt assessment if breathing becomes harder, fever returns after improvement, symptoms are rapidly worsening, or a cough continues beyond the expected recovery period. Babies, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with heart, lung or immune problems may need earlier advice.

Ask what is most likely causing the cough, whether you need a chest examination or testing, which medicines are suitable with your health conditions, and what change should prompt an urgent review.