HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Persistent Cough Despite Taking Medication?

default
Posted on Wed, 2 Nov 2016
Question: I have a deep cough--drainage--no fever. I have been using OTC product for 2 days which has helped but not eliminated the problem. Do I need to see my doctor?
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (58 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
can continue home treatment for now

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

A cough due to acute infection from cough/cold would normally last 7 to 10 days.

In some cases a person can develop post viral cough where the cough symptoms last for 6 weeks after the other cough symptoms have resolved.

You can consider continuing the XXXXXXX seltzer cold which should contain a cough suppressant, decongestant and pain killer.
The only thing that can be added to this is a mucolytic which is medication to help break up the mucus in the chest so that it can be expelled easier eg guaifenesin or mucomyst

Continue to use fluids, this helps as well to decrease the thickness of any secretions.

If there is worsening of symptoms or they continue beyond the normal of 7 to 10 days, then you should see your doctor

I hope this helps , feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16835 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Persistent Cough Despite Taking Medication?

Brief Answer: can continue home treatment for now Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic A cough due to acute infection from cough/cold would normally last 7 to 10 days. In some cases a person can develop post viral cough where the cough symptoms last for 6 weeks after the other cough symptoms have resolved. You can consider continuing the XXXXXXX seltzer cold which should contain a cough suppressant, decongestant and pain killer. The only thing that can be added to this is a mucolytic which is medication to help break up the mucus in the chest so that it can be expelled easier eg guaifenesin or mucomyst Continue to use fluids, this helps as well to decrease the thickness of any secretions. If there is worsening of symptoms or they continue beyond the normal of 7 to 10 days, then you should see your doctor I hope this helps , feel free to ask any other questions