Cough: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

A cough is a common symptom that happens when your body tries to clear irritation, mucus or other substances from your airways. Most coughs are caused by minor illnesses such as colds and usually improve without treatment, but some can last longer or be linked to other conditions.

A cough can feel different depending on its cause. Some coughs are dry and irritating, while others produce mucus or phlegm.

Common cough symptoms include:

  • A dry, tickly cough
  • A chesty cough that produces mucus
  • A sore or irritated throat
  • A blocked or runny nose
  • Wheezing or a tight feeling in the chest
  • Coughing more at night
  • Coughing fits or persistent coughing

Some people may also experience symptoms linked to the underlying cause of their cough, such as fever, tiredness, shortness of breath or body aches.

Older man wearing a scarf taking medication with a glass of water at a table

What are the different types of cough?

Coughs are often described by how they feel and how long they last.

Dry cough

A dry cough does not produce mucus and may feel like a tickle or irritation in your throat. It can often be worse at night or after an infection has cleared.

Chest cough

A chesty cough produces mucus or phlegm and is your body's way of clearing your airways.

Persistent cough

A cough that lasts for several weeks may need further assessment, especially if it is not improving or is accompanied by other symptoms.

What causes a cough?

There are many possible causes of a cough. The most common cause is a viral infection, such as a cold, flu or COVID-19. These infections can irritate the airways, causing coughing as your body works to clear the virus.

Other causes of a cough can include chest infections, asthma, allergies, acid reflux, smoking or exposure to irritants such as pollution and dust.

Certain medications can also cause a persistent cough. If you have developed a cough that does not improve, a clinician can help identify the possible cause and advise on the next steps.

 

How long does a cough last?

The length of time a cough lasts depends on what is causing it.

A short-term cough caused by a cold or viral infection usually improves within a few weeks. However, it is common for a cough to continue after the infection itself has cleared because the airways can remain irritated.

A cough lasting more than three weeks is considered persistent and should be reviewed, particularly if it is getting worse or affecting your daily activities. A cough lasting more than eight weeks is known as a chronic cough and may require further investigation.

How can I treat a cough?

Most coughs improve without specific treatment. The main aim is to relieve symptoms while your body recovers.

Keeping hydrated can help soothe an irritated throat and loosen mucus. Rest, warm drinks and honey can also help ease coughing, particularly when symptoms are caused by a viral infection.

Over-the-counter medicines, such as cough remedies, throat lozenges or pain relief medication, may help with symptoms for some people. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and check that medicines are suitable for you.

If your cough is caused by an underlying condition, such as asthma, allergies or acid reflux, treating the cause may help improve your symptoms.

Close-up of a hand holding a brown medicine bottle

When should I see a doctor about a cough?

Most coughs are not serious and improve with time. However, you should speak to a healthcare professional if:

  • Your cough lasts longer than three weeks
  • Your symptoms are getting worse
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • You experience chest pain
  • You cough up blood
  • You have a persistent high fever
  • You have a long-term health condition or weakened immune system

You should seek urgent medical advice if you are struggling to breathe, have severe chest pain or feel seriously unwell.

Frequently asked questions

Most coughs improve within a few weeks. If your cough lasts longer than three weeks, is worsening or is affecting your daily life, it is worth speaking to a healthcare professional.

A cough can continue after an infection because the airways may remain irritated. Other causes of a persistent cough include asthma, allergies, acid reflux and some medications.

There is no instant cure for most coughs, but staying hydrated, resting and managing symptoms can make you feel more comfortable while your body recovers.

Most coughs are caused by viruses, so antibiotics will not help. They are only used when a clinician believes a bacterial infection is present. In these scenarios a face to face consultation may be advised.

Coughs can feel worse at night because lying down can increase throat irritation or mucus drainage. Conditions such as acid reflux can also trigger coughing at night.

See a UK GP today

Skip the wait — book an online appointment and get expert advice from a UK-registered clinician in as little as 2 hours. 

Related Topics