A persistent cough has become a widespread issue, with many people experiencing a hacking cough that lasts for weeks. Doctors have noticed an increase in patients with typical viral upper respiratory infections, but with a lingering cough that persists for several weeks.
According to experts, the cause of this symptom is not the flu or COVID-19, but another pathogen that’s attacking and irritating the respiratory system. Dr. Scott Braunstein, a double-board certified internal medicine and emergency medicine physician, said the persistent cough is likely due to prolonged inflammation in the airways.
“This chest cold has a real junky and persistent cough,” Dr. Janet O’Mahony, an internal medicine physician, explained. The viruses that cause this symptom are rhinovirus, non-COVID coronaviruses, or adenoviruses, which can trigger flu-like symptoms that last for a while.
The reason why primary care doctors and urgent care clinics don’t routinely test for these other viruses is because they’re not typically tested unless someone is hospitalized with severe symptoms. However, experts say the contagiousness of these viruses tends to last around 5-7 days, with some people being infectious for longer if they have weakened immune systems.
To treat the cough, it’s essential to test yourself for the flu and COVID-19 first. If you test negative, your healthcare provider can recommend treatments such as rest, hydration, over-the-counter medications, or prescribe medications that reduce inflammation in the airways. It’s also crucial to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus, such as washing hands frequently, covering the mouth and nose when coughing, and staying indoors until feeling better.
As cold and flu season continues, experts stress the importance of taking extra precautions and using common sense if someone around you gets sick.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/youre-dealing-cough-now-everyone-133103615.html