Coughing is a common symptom that many people experience at some point in their lives. But how long should a cough last? And what makes a cough considered normal or abnormal? Understanding the answers to these questions can help you determine when it’s time to see a doctor.
Normal cough
A normal cough, also known as an acute cough, typically lasts no longer than three weeks. This type of cough is often a result of a viral infection, such as the common cold, and goes away on its own as the body fights off the illness. Acute coughs are usually not serious and can be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants and cough syrup.
Abnormal cough
On the other hand, an abnormal cough is one that lasts longer than three weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain, wheezing, or shortness of breath. This type of cough may indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or lung cancer. If you experience an abnormal cough, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
In addition to the duration of the cough, it’s also important to pay attention to the type of cough. A dry cough, for example, may indicate a viral infection, while a wet or productive cough may indicate the presence of mucus and may indicate a bacterial infection or other underlying condition.
While a normal cough typically lasts no longer than three weeks and is usually not serious, an abnormal cough that lasts longer or is accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition. If you’re concerned about your cough, don’t hesitate to see a doctor for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.
Some common causes of a chronic cough in adults:
- Postnasal drip: This occurs when excess mucus drips down the back of the throat, triggering a cough.
- Asthma: Chronic coughing is a common symptom of asthma, a respiratory condition that causes the airways to become inflamed and narrow.
- Acid reflux (GERD): Stomach acid that backs up into the esophagus can irritate the throat and cause a persistent cough.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): This is a progressive lung disease that causes breathing difficulties and chronic coughing.
- Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes can cause a persistent cough, especially in smokers or those with COPD.
- Interstitial lung disease: This is a group of lung diseases that cause progressive scarring of the lungs, leading to a persistent cough and shortness of breath.
- Lung cancer: A persistent cough can be a symptom of lung cancer, especially in smokers.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause a persistent cough, especially when lying down.
- Environmental irritants: Exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, and chemicals can cause a persistent cough.
It’s important to see a doctor if you experience a persistent cough as there may be an underlying cause that needs to be treated. An accurate diagnosis can only be made through a physical examination, medical history review, and potentially additional tests.