Decoding a Cough: What Does all that Hacking Mean—and What Helps

Gadsden, AL, April 15, 2024 – Respiratory illnesses continue to rise with coughs being a common overlapping symptom among them all. Decoding the characteristics of a cough, including its duration, sound and accompanying symptoms, can help patients understand what is going on and how to treat it.  

Most people are typically contagious the first three to five days after the initial respiratory infection, according to the CDC. However, a cough can linger around longer. A temporary, acute cough typically lasts less than three weeks and is often associated with short-lived illnesses like the common cold or the flu. But, a cough that lasts longer - anywhere from four to eight weeks – is typically a sign of unresolved inflammation from illnesses like bronchitis, long COVID or other serious conditions.

In addition to the length of a cough, it is important to monitor a dry versus wet-sounding cough. A dry cough, or an unproductive cough, is more commonly associated with the flu or COVID, it doesn’t produce phlegm or mucus and it leaves a tickling sensation in the throat. A wet cough is more commonly associated with a cold, RSV or pneumonia, and may feel like mucus is stuck in the chest or back of the throat.

While bothersome, a cough is the body’s defense mechanism for getting rid of irritants from your lungs,” said Dr. Jonathan Mikhail, family medicine physician at Gadsden Family Practice. “However, if you develop other symptoms, such as a high fever, chills or wheezing, it’s time to call your doctor.”  

Dr. Mikhail suggests these remedies to alleviate discomfort:

• Drink tea with local honey: Honey acts as a natural suppressant and contains antioxidants to help lower inflammation in your throat.
• Try a saline rinse or steam shower: Moisture and warmth can open breathing passages and thin mucus to help expel it out.
• Sleep with the head elevated: Propping the head up at a higher angle can help drain mucus and relieve sinus pressure.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can also thin mucus and flush out irritants.
• Lastly, take over-the-counter medication: Cough suppressants can help by controlling the reflex that makes someone cough and provide temporary relief.