How to Treat a Lingering Cough
Douglas C. Moody MD, family medicine doctor at Montgomery Family Medicine, discusses the best way to treat the lingering cough that's often associated with a viral illness.
What Causes a Lingering Cough?
A lingering cough often stems from a secondary infection that may include: “A secondary bacterial sinus infection, or a secondary bacterial bronchitis – and those things may linger," Dr. Moody tells Local 12's Liz Bonis. "Sometimes sinus infections can linger for many, many months.”
What is the Best Way to Treat a Lingering Cough?
Bacterial infections often need antibiotics to alleviate symptoms, Dr. Moody says. For example, if the cough is caused by asthma, you may need a steroid medication to help open the airways.
Overall, “you have to treat the source and figure out the source,” he points out.
If you do have a cough that won’t go away, Dr. Moody recommends visiting your doctor to determine the best treatment option for easing symptoms.
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