[:en]Experiencing a lingering cough after recovering from the flu or Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) can be frustrating and concerning.
Sometimes, the cough may persist for weeks or months after the infection has cleared. It is essential to understand the causes of a persistent cough, therefore you can get the appropriate treatment.
What Are The Causes Of Persistent Cough After URTI?
There are several possible causes of a persistent cough after a flu or URTI. These include:
- Post-viral cough: After the flu or URTI, the respiratory tract can remain sensitive and inflamed. This irritation can lead to a lingering cough that persists beyond the usual recovery period. The body’s attempts to clear mucus and repair damaged tissues may contribute to the prolonged cough.
- Secondary infections: In some cases, the flu or URTI can pave the way for secondary bacterial infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia. These infections can cause a persistent cough as the body tries to fight off the infection.
- Asthma: For individuals with asthma, a URTI may exacerbate their symptoms. Even after the flu subsides, the airways may remain hyper-responsive leading to a lingering cough as the lungs try to regain their normal function.
- Post-nasal drip: This is a condition where excess mucus from the nasal passages drips down the throat. When the mucus irritates the throat, it can cause persistent coughing, continuing long after the primary infection.
- Allergies: During and after the flu, the body’s immune response can become more sensitive to allergens. This increased sensitivity may result in a persistent cough as the respiratory system tries to expel the irritants.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental pollutants, such as smoke, dust, or strong odors, can exacerbate a post-flu cough.
- Underlying health conditions: In some cases, a persistent cough after the flu could be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These conditions may require medical attention for appropriate management.
How To Treat A Persistent Cough After URTI?
The treatment for a persistent cough after a flu or URTI will vary depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, home remedies may be sufficient to relieve the cough. These remedies include:
- Drink plenty of fluids: This will help to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up.
- Use a humidifier: This will add moisture to the air, which can help to soothe a dry throat and loosen mucus.
If home remedies are not effective and you are still experiencing a persistent cough, It is important to consult your GP to identify the causes and get appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help alleviate your discomfort and promote a speedy recovery .
You may book your online tele-consult with Healthsprings here.
Healthsprings Medical Associates
Address: 541 Orchard Road #10-02, Liat Towers Singapore 238881
Contact: +65 6734 5260 / +65 9728 7793
Healthsprings Medical Clinic
Address: 524A, Greenridge Shopping Centre, #02-01, Jelapang Road, Singapore 671524
Contact: +65 6892 6681 / +65 8799 8936
Healthsprings Medical & Laser Clinic
Address: 105A Bidadari Park Drive #01-09 Singapore 341105
Contact: +65 6970 7933 / +65 8616 6166[:]
