Suggest Treatment For Persistent Cough That Followed After A Cold

Posted on Fri, 9 Jun 2023

Question: I had a cold in early January and the coughing is still continuing.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Post viral/post infectious cough

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

It is possible that you may have post viral cough/post infectious cough, this is a cough that persists for 3 to 8 weeks after a cold or flu.

This diagnosis is made based on:
(1) Previous history of cold/flu
(2) Cough lasting 3 to 8 weeks
(3) Usually require a normal X-ray to make sure that there are no other possible causes

In many cases, it does not respond to normal treatment, in others it may go on its own after a while. You are likely using a cough suppressant, anti-histamine decongestant combination. Cough suppressants would be Dextromethorphan or Codeine usually.

Decongestants- pseudoephedrine or phenyephrine

Antihistamines such as chlorphenamine, brompheniramine, diphenhydramine

Some people need a short course of steroids or antibiotics as well.

If you are currently using a cough medicine combination with these medications, then you may need to see your doctor to determine if additional medication is needed.

I hope this helps.

Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar