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What Causes Persistent Cough When Suffering From Viral Infection?

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Posted on Mon, 9 Feb 2015
Question: ive been to the doctors and i got told i had a viral infection.. wasnt given anything for it etc... but ive had this cough for 3 weeks... and my throat is soo sore when i eat and cough...
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Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (51 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
viral syndrome

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.

It is true that if your infection causing your symptoms is viral then there are no medications to treat this. If you feel that you are getting worse instead of getting better you may need to return to your doctor. Sometimes a viral infection can be followed by a bacterial infection and in this case antibiotics would be needed.

In the mean time make sure that you are drinking plenty of water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they are dehydrating. Use warm salt water gargles and lozenges for your sore throat. You may also want to use a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air you are breathing. Nasal saline sprays can also add moisture to the sinuses and help with the sore throat. The cough after a severe viral infection can last for many weeks but if you feel you are getting worse or if the sore throat is severe I suggest that you return to your doctor.

Thank you for using HCM.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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Answered by
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Dr. Kathy Robinson

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1989

Answered : 3535 Questions

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What Causes Persistent Cough When Suffering From Viral Infection?

Brief Answer: viral syndrome Detailed Answer: Hello and thank you for your question. It is true that if your infection causing your symptoms is viral then there are no medications to treat this. If you feel that you are getting worse instead of getting better you may need to return to your doctor. Sometimes a viral infection can be followed by a bacterial infection and in this case antibiotics would be needed. In the mean time make sure that you are drinking plenty of water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they are dehydrating. Use warm salt water gargles and lozenges for your sore throat. You may also want to use a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air you are breathing. Nasal saline sprays can also add moisture to the sinuses and help with the sore throat. The cough after a severe viral infection can last for many weeks but if you feel you are getting worse or if the sore throat is severe I suggest that you return to your doctor. Thank you for using HCM.