I Have a Cough That Won’t Go Away? What is wrong with me?
When a Cough Won’t Go Away
In our clinic, we often see patients who come in saying, “I’ve had this cough for weeks, and it just won’t go away.” A lingering cough can interrupt sleep, make it hard to talk, and leave you feeling worn out.
So what’s really going on when a cough doesn’t quit, and when is it time to get it checked out?
Common Causes of a Lingering Cough
Postnasal Drip
After a cold or during allergy season, mucus can continue to drip down the back of your throat, creating that constant “tickle” that triggers a cough. It’s often worse at night or in the early morning.Asthma or Reactive Airway Disease
Some people have a form of asthma where cough is the only symptom. It may flare up with exercise, exposure to cold air, or irritants like smoke or strong fragrances.Acid Reflux (GERD)
Stomach acid that travels back up into the throat can irritate the airway and cause chronic coughing, especially when lying down after meals.Post-Infectious Cough
After a viral infection — like a cold, the flu, or even COVID-19 — inflammation in the airways can linger, keeping your cough reflex active for weeks after you’ve otherwise recovered.Medications
Certain blood pressure medications (especially ACE inhibitors) can trigger a dry, persistent cough. If you’ve recently started a new medication, let your healthcare provider know so they can review it with you.Environmental Irritants
Exposure to smoke, dust, perfumes, or pollution can keep your airways irritated and delay healing.
When to Schedule a Visit
While most lingering coughs resolve on their own, it’s important to schedule an appointment if your cough lasts longer than three weeks or if you notice:
Shortness of breath or wheezing
Coughing up blood or thick green/yellow mucus
Chest pain or tightness
Fever that won’t go away
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
These could be signs of asthma, infection, chronic bronchitis, or another condition that needs evaluation and treatment.
Simple Ways to Soothe Your Cough at Home
Stay hydrated: Drinking fluids helps thin mucus and keeps your throat moist.
Add humidity: A cool-mist humidifier can ease irritation in dry environments.
Avoid smoke and irritants: Try to steer clear of secondhand smoke, dust, and harsh cleaning products.
Soothe your throat: Warm tea with honey, throat lozenges, or saltwater gargles can calm irritation.
Sleep with your head elevated: Especially helpful if reflux or postnasal drip are contributing factors.
The Takeaway
A cough that lingers doesn’t always mean something serious, but it’s your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. If your cough hasn’t improved or is affecting your daily life, it’s worth getting checked out.