What does cough feel like with COVID-19?

A COVID-19 cough can feel like a persistent tickle in the throat or an urge to cough from deeper in the chest. It may be dry, but some people produce phlegm. Fever, sore throat, runny nose, headache, tiredness, muscle aches, or changes in smell or taste may occur as well. Breathlessness is more concerning than the sound of the cough, especially if it appears at rest or interferes with speaking.

Cough is common with COVID-19, but this symptom cannot confirm the infection because many respiratory illnesses cause similar coughs. Testing and clinical context may help, depending on local advice and your risk factors.

Rest, drink fluids according to your usual health guidance, and use simple measures that soothe your throat. Improve ventilation and avoid close contact with people at higher risk while you are unwell; follow current local public-health advice about testing and staying home. Continue prescribed medicines unless a clinician tells you otherwise.

Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms are worsening, fever persists or returns, or you have a condition that raises the risk of severe illness. Get emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, severe chest pain, or inability to stay awake. Coughing blood requires prompt assessment.

Ask whether you should test, how to monitor breathing at home, and whether early treatment assessment is appropriate for your health history. Tell the clinician when symptoms began and mention pregnancy, immune problems, lung disease, or other long-term conditions.