What should you know about flu cough and cold are caused by?

Viruses can inflame the nose, throat and breathing tubes, making them produce mucus and become sensitive. Coughing then helps move mucus and irritants out. A common cold often causes a milder upper-airway cough, while influenza can bring a dry cough with fever, aches and marked tiredness.

A cough that continues after the initial infection may reflect lingering airway sensitivity. Other possible causes include acid reflux, allergic rhinitis, asthma or acute bronchitis. A persistent cough can also need assessment for conditions such as bronchiectasis or bronchiolitis, especially in children or people with existing lung disease.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and avoid smoke or strong fragrances. Warm drinks can soothe an irritated throat. Follow the label for any over-the-counter medicine and check with a pharmacist if you take regular medicines, are pregnant, or are caring for a child. Antibiotics do not treat an uncomplicated viral cough.

Note whether the cough is dry or produces mucus, whether it worsens at night or after meals, and whether wheeze or breathlessness occurs. This pattern helps a clinician decide whether the cause is in the upper airway, lungs or digestive tract.

Seek urgent care for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, chest pain, confusion, coughing blood, or a sudden deterioration. Arrange a medical review for a cough that is worsening, prevents sleep, returns repeatedly, or does not settle as expected, particularly if you have asthma or another lung condition.

Does the cough fit a viral illness, or should we check for asthma, reflux or another cause? Do I need an examination or inhaler? Which changes in breathing or mucus should prompt review?