Controlling Your Cough | AFC Urgent Care of Sevierville

If you head out to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or anywhere in the Sevierville area, chances are that you are going to hear someone coughing. Or, you might be the person coughing.

As annoying as a cough can be on its own, it can sometimes also come with various other symptoms. Would you know when to seek medical attention for your cough?

Why Am I Coughing?

A cough is a reflex reaction when something gets in your airway, such as mucus or a foreign particle like smoke, pollen or dust.

Especially in our area of East Tennessee, pollen is a major factor for coughing, sneezing and many other respiratory issues.  In fact, some cities in our area are often listed as some of the most consistent pollen offenders in the United States!

While coughing is usually a minor symptom that can go away on its own, there are times when coughing can be a sign of a more serious medical issue. This can be especially true if your cough seems to linger on for weeks.

What Other Symptoms Can Appear With a Cough?

• Heartburn
• Hoarseness
• Post-nasal drip
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Wheezing

Can You Treat A Cough at Home?

Fortunately, in most cases, a cough can be handled with at-home remedies, such as using a humidifier and drinking plenty of fluids.  For coughs related to pollen, a daily allergy medication may help.

However, if a cough doesn’t seem to get better within a couple days, worsens or if other symptoms appear along with the cough, then it is time to stop by our Sevierville walk in clinic for relief.  Certain signs along with your cough are a definite indicator that medical attention is needed:

Signs It’s Time to See a Doctor About Your Cough

• Dizziness
• Excessive sweating
• Fainting
• Fractured rib
• Headache
• Urinary incontinence

If you start experiencing these symptoms or if your cough has not eased after a few days, visit AFC Urgent Care of Sevierville.  Let our expert staff help you diagnose your cough and find the right relief from that cough.