Why Does My Cough Persist and How Can I Treat It?

Actually, coughing is a protective mechanism of the body used to clear foreign bodies and secretions from the respiratory tract. However, if coughing persists for too long, it may indicate some health issues. Firstly, the cause of persistent coughing may be related to infections. For example, respiratory infections such as colds, flu, and bronchitis can all cause coughing. If coughing is accompanied by yellowish-green phlegm, it may be a sign of bacterial infection, and antibiotic treatment may need to be considered. Allergies are also a common cause of coughing, especially during the high allergy seasons in spring or autumn, where pollen, dust, or pet dander in the air can trigger allergic coughing. For this type of coughing, avoiding allergens and using anti-allergic drugs may be helpful. Additionally, environmental factors can also cause coughing. For instance, dry air, heavy pollution, or prolonged exposure to smoke can irritate the respiratory tract and cause coughing. Improving indoor air quality, using humidifiers to keep the air moist, or avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke as much as possible are all effective measures. Another situation is gastroesophageal reflux, where stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus, irritates the throat, and causes coughing. Adjusting the diet to avoid spicy and greasy foods, and elevating the head of the bed when sleeping, may help improve the condition. For the treatment of coughing, it is first necessary to identify the cause and prescribe the appropriate medication. Simple home remedies can be tried, such as drinking more water to keep the throat moist. Honey lemon water is also a good choice as it can relieve throat discomfort. If coughing persists for more than three weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats, or coughing up blood, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for detailed examination to rule out more serious illnesses. Although long-term coughing is common, it should not be taken lightly. Understanding its possible causes and taking corresponding measures can effectively relieve symptoms and restore health. I hope this information can help you and rid you of the trouble of coughing soon.