Whether it’s a summer cold, typical Tennessee allergies, or feeling under the weather during the holidays, no one wants to be slowed down by sickness at any time of the year.  But sure enough, a cough seems to crop up at the most inopportune time!

Our team at AFC Urgent Care of Fountain City doesn’t want you to waste time coughing up a storm, which is why we want to share some tips on how to treat your cough and find relief as soon as possible.

Why Does a Cough Occur?

Also known as “tussis,” a cough is a common reflex action that occurs when a person is trying to clear his or her throat due to some type of irritant, extra mucus, a foreign particle or another object.

The cough can happen either as a reflux or be done deliberately when trying to remove a foreign particle from the throat.

Causes of a Cough

• Common cold
• Non-allergic rhinitis
• Asthma
• Smoking
• Acute sinusitis
• Pneumonia
• Allergic rhinitis
• Chronic bronchitis
• COPD
• GERD
• Acid reflux
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Postnasal drip

Can a Cough Be Prevented?

While you can’t really prevent a cough from occurring in the first place, there are ways you can keep it from sticking around for a while. Try using a humidifier in your bedroom while sleeping, as well as drinking hot coffee, tea with honey, or other warm beverages to help soothe your throat.

Treatment for a Cough

• Try cough medicine or other OTC meds.
• Drink lots of fluids, especially water and warm liquids.
• Take antibiotics, if prescribed.
• Breathe in steam from a hot shower.
• Avoid exertion until your cough clears up.

Still suffering from that lingering cough? Visit AFC Urgent Care of Fountain City today to ensure your cough isn’t a symptom of a another medical condition.