Lingering cough after flu: what to know

Inflammation from a viral infection can leave the throat and breathing tubes sensitive after fever and body aches have settled. Talking, cold air, dry indoor air or exercise may trigger coughing. Mucus draining from the nose can also irritate the throat. A cough that is gradually easing is different from one that becomes deeper, more frequent or associated with new fever.

Other conditions can also present with cough, including Acute Bronchitis, Asthma, Acid Reflux, Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Cough. These possibilities cannot be sorted out from the cough alone; the sound, duration, triggers, breathing and examination all matter.

Rest when you need it and return to activity in stages. Drink regularly, use warm fluids if they soothe your throat, and avoid smoke, vaping and strongly scented products. Honey may soothe a cough for adults and children over twelve months; never give honey to an infant. A pharmacist can explain which cough treatment is suitable for your age, medicines and health conditions.

Note whether the cough is dry or brings up mucus, what triggers it, and whether sleep or exercise is affected. This record helps a clinician distinguish post-viral irritation from problems such as Acute Bronchitis or Bronchiectasis.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, or chest pain that is severe or persistent. Arrange prompt medical review if you cough blood, develop a new or returning fever, feel increasingly unwell, or have breathlessness with ordinary activity. Book an appointment if the cough is not steadily improving, repeatedly disturbs sleep, or you have asthma, lung disease or a weakened immune system.

Ask: Could this be post-viral irritation, Acute Bronchitis, Asthma or reflux? What changes should prompt urgent care? Would you check my breathing or listen to my chest? Which medicines are safe with my current treatment?