Coughing is a common symptom of many different illnesses. A cough lasting two weeks can be concerning, but it is not always a sign of a serious condition. A persistent cough often results from a lingering respiratory infection, allergies, or irritants like smoke and pollution. However, if the cough is accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath or worsening severity, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. Understanding the common causes of a prolonged cough can help determine whether it is a normal part of recovery or a reason to seek medical care.
At AFC Urgent Care Southcenter, our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day cough diagnosis and treatment - all without having to schedule an appointment! We’re open Monday through Saturday and conveniently located in Kent, WA! Walk into the clinic today, we have short wait times.
How Long Does a Cough Typically Last?
There are many different illnesses that can lead to a cough ranging from a mild cold or allergies up to serious lung infections such as pneumonia. In many cases, coughs will resolve on their own over time. However, it is important to understand what is normal for a cough and when you should seek medical care for treatment.
In most cases, a cough should resolve around the same time as any other illness symptoms you may be experiencing. However, coughs caused by upper respiratory infections such as colds, or environmental factors like allergies may linger for multiple weeks.
When to Seek Medical Care
If you’re experiencing a cough, there are a few factors that suggest you should seek medical treatment for your cough. These include having a persistent cough that lasts more than 3 weeks or experiencing additional symptoms such as a fever, chest pain, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Similarly, if your cough produces discolored mucus or you have severe coughing fits, you should seek medical care. These symptoms are not normal for a mild illness and likely suggest a more serious infection that requires immediate medical care.
Cough Diagnosis & Treatment in Kent, WA
If you’re experiencing a severe cough, or a cough that has lasted more than a week, you may need medical treatment. Your medical provider will be able to evaluate your symptoms including reviewing any additional symptoms, listening to your lungs, and performing diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of your cough. Depending on the cause, treatment options may vary. Sometimes coughs will resolve on their own, but in severe cases antibiotics or inhalers may be necessary to help the lungs recover.
Walk Into AFC Urgent Care Southcenter for Cough Treatment
Seeking medical care for a persistent or severe cough is crucial. Conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis can be associated with a severe cough, making timely diagnosis essential for proper treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Southcenter, our clinic offers patients in Kent, WA and the surrounding areas with same-day cough diagnosis and treatment. Our clinic has short wait times and accepts most medical insurance plans. Simply walk in for same-day care when it’s convenient for you!
