Coughing is a common symptom of many different illnesses. Determining the cause of your cough is the best way to treat it. However, a productive cough can be caused by many different types of infections. If you’re coughing up mucus, you may be suffering from a respiratory tract infection. Keep reading to learn how to treat a productive cough and common causes of a cough that produces mucus.
For same-day illness symptom treatment, walk into AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction. Our walk-in clinic offers rapid care for coughs all on a walk-in basis. Our clinic has a lab on-site for rapid diagnostic testing. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you!
What Causes of A Wet Cough?
A wet cough is characterized by excessive mucus in the respiratory tract as a result of an infection. As a response to the build-up of mucus, the body activates the cough reflex to get rid of the congestion in the lungs. While sometimes a cough can be dry, chest congestion in the lungs can lead to a wet cough that produces thick mucus.
There are many different illnesses that can lead to a productive cough including colds, the flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, and more. While the cold and flu often will resolve on their own, bacterial infections require treatment. It is important to seek medical care if you’re suffering from a productive cough.
Treatment Options For a Productive Cough
The best way to determine how to get rid of your cough is to seek medical care. A medical professional will be able to evaluate your symptoms, listen to your lungs, and perform diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Delaying care can result in your symptoms becoming more severe and long-lasting.
Depending on the underlying cause of your symptoms, there may be multiple treatment options available. Bacterial infections require treatment via antibiotics. If your symptoms are caused by a viral infection, you can try at-home remedies and over-the-counter medications to treat your symptoms. Taking hot showers, using humidifiers in your home, taking over-the-counter decongestants, and managing discomfort with OTC pain relievers can all help you manage your symptoms while your body fights off the infection.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction for Same-Day Cough Treatment
If you’re experiencing a wet cough that is producing mucus, it is important to seek medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Grand Junction, we offer same-day cough diagnosis and treatment on a walk-in basis. Our clinic maintains short wait times, making us a convenient alternative to visiting the ER or scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider. Our board-certified medical providers are able to provide a swift diagnosis of your symptoms with the help of our on-site lab. Based on the results of any diagnostic testing that is performed, your medical provider will prescribe the necessary treatment to ensure a swift recovery. Walk into the clinic today!
