If you’ve ever had a lingering cough that just won’t seem to go away, you know how frustrating it is. It’s even worse when the cough just keeps getting worse! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless in that situation but remember you won’t have to live with a worsening cough forever. If you’re struggling to find relief, consider what could be causing your cough to get worse.

Dryness

Dry environments are the last thing you want when you’re battling a cough for any reason. Adding a humidifier to the main spaces of your home and near your bed when you sleep will keep moist air going in, limiting irritation.

Moisture also makes it easier to cough up any secretions that could be in your bronchial tubes if you have a productive cough. In this instance, the sooner you get it out, the sooner you’ll feel better!

Irritation

Another cause of a worsening cough is throat irritation. Irritation can be a result of allergies, excess sinus drainage, excessive talking, and smoking. Avoid potential irritants including secondhand smoke.

Soothe existing irritation using cough drops, throat spray, and lozenges. Soothing irritation will allow you to cough less. This is important because if you keep coughing, the irritation won’t go away anytime soon!

Uncontrolled Illness

The most obvious cause of a worsening cough is an illness. While many illnesses can cause a cough for a short period, if a cough is lingering and continuing to get worse it’s a sign you need more treatment. Visit an urgent care center to discuss your symptoms, receive and accurate diagnosis, and receive prescription treatment as needed.

Bacterial infections, such as strep throat and some bronchitis, will not improve without the use of prescription antibiotics. Your urgent care provider can test for common viral infections such as covid-19 and the flu before prescribing an antibiotic. They can also administer vaccines for the flu and covid-19 if you haven’t had one for the 2022 flu season yet!

Leaving a cough untreated while it continues to get worse can cause long-term damage and allow an infection to grow stronger. That’s why experts urge patients to seek treatment sooner rather than later! You don’t need to wait until you’ve lost your voice and feel pain with every breath to seek treatment for your worsening cough. Urgent care centers offer expert care with no appointment required. Stop whenever it’s convenient for you and get your cough under control today!