Hello, * As per my clinical experience, the gritty cough does indicate bacterial infection of the lower respiratory tract most likely. My guidelines for better recpvery from this isntance - discuss the need of lab tests of complete hemogram with chest x-ray with your doc during next scheduled visit - deep breathing exercises - meditations - YOGA - walking in fresh air - control of body weight - avoidance of obesity - prefer semi reclining positioning while resting - avoid smoking if consuming - balanced nutritious diet to combat the immunity status - antibitoics with gram positive coverage as mox clavulanic acid or others - bronchi dilator as terutaline decongestant as pseudophedrine expectorant as guianphenecin. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel