Pulmonologist Svetlana Petrova: a lingering cough can haunt a person for weeks.
Pulmonologist Petrova said in an interview that the “phenomenon” of a lingering cough often manifests itself in the autumn -winter period. Its occurrence is facilitated by various infections, which is not uncommon during the season when numerous viruses begin to actively circulate.
“A cough with a viral disease can persist for two weeks, this is considered normal. With some infections, a cough can be present for up to three weeks,” Petrova shared in a comment to the St. Petersburg TV channel.
The doctor added that a cough can also drag on due to improper treatment or neglect of recommendations that are important to follow during this period.
What a pulmonologist recommends for cough therapy:
- Quit smoking;
- Provide rest to cough receptors – for example, by frequently drinking warm drinks or broths, maintaining air humidity;
- Talk less.
Petrova explained when a persistent cough requires seeing a doctor.
“If the cough continues for more than 3-4 weeks, then you need to see a doctor.”
Ignoring a persistent cough or self-medicating in its case is dangerous – such a cough may be a symptom of dangerous disorders that require examination and treatment.
What pathologies can cause a lingering cough:
- Mycoplasma infection and whooping cough – they are relevant diseases this season;
- Post-Covid syndrome;
- Heart failure:
- Pulmonary hypertension, stagnation of blood in the lungs;
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, gastroesophageal reflux;
- Oncological diseases of the bronchi or lungs due to smoking.
- /ul>Earlier, the MedikForum.ru portal wrote about what kind of edema can occur with the development of various diseases.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Svetlana Petrova Health pulmonologist, candidate of medical sciences