Coughing is your body’s natural way of clearing irritants and mucus from your airways. While a persistent cough can be concerning, a cough that comes and goes can be equally frustrating and confusing. Understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek treatment are essential to finding relief. In this blog, we’ll explore why you have a nagging cough and when it might be necessary to seek a medical evaluation.
For same-day cough treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our medical team is available seven days a week to diagnose and treat your condition. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below.
Common Causes of a Cough That Comes and Goes
A cough that comes and goes can be caused by various factors, including:
Postnasal Drip
Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can lead to excess mucus dripping down the back of your throat, irritating your airway and causing intermittent coughing.
Asthma
Asthma can cause a chronic, recurring cough, often worse at night or after exposure to triggers like exercise, cold air, or allergens. Cough-variant asthma, a type of asthma, presents with a cough as the primary symptom rather than wheezing.
Respiratory Infections
Colds, bronchitis, or the flu can cause coughing that lingers and reoccurs after the main infection clears. This is due to lingering airway inflammation or sensitivity.
Acid Reflux (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease can irritate the throat when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, leading to a cough that seems to come and go, especially after meals or lying down.
Treatments for a Nagging Cough
The treatment for a recurring cough depends on the underlying cause. Coughs caused by allergies or postnasal drip can be treated with antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays. These medications can help reduce mucus production and relieve throat irritation. Asthma can be managed through prescribed medications and inhalers to prevent coughing episodes. Infections often require rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medicines to alleviate symptoms. Antibiotics are often prescribed for bacterial infections.
A cough that comes and goes may not always be serious, but there are instances when professional medical care is necessary. If your cough lasts longer than 10 days, is accompanied by other symptoms, produces blood or yellow/green mucus, or significantly disrupts your daily life, seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend the proper treatment.
Get a Walk-In Cough Diagnosis & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer
A cough that comes and goes can be caused by a wide range of factors, including allergies, asthma, or various infections. While occasional coughing might not always seem alarming, understanding the root cause is essential for effective treatment and long-term relief. If your cough persists, disrupts your daily activities, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. At AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer, we can help identify the cause of your cough and recommend treatments to get you back to feeling your best. Timely intervention can help identify and treat the root cause of your symptoms, ensuring a faster and more effective recovery. If you have any additional questions about cough treatment, please contact us directly at (303) 733-4000 to speak with a member of our team.
