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By Everything Lifestyle Staff

Cold and flu season

Can’t Stop Coughing?

Oct 21, 2024 | 4:55 AM

When is a cough just a cough and when is it something more? Here’s what you should know.

Q: When should I see a doctor for a cough?

If your cough lasts longer than three weeks, it’s a good idea to see your doctor. You should also see your doctor if you cough up blood, have trouble breathing or have pain with your cough.

Q: How do I know the difference between a cold and the flu?

If you have a high fever, body aches and fatigue in addition to your cough and stuffy nose, you could have the flu. With the flu, you feel like you were run over by a truck. With a cold, you can still function. When in doubt, see your doctor.

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Q: When is a lingering cough a problem?

A cough that drags on for more than a few weeks can certainly indicate a more serious problem. You could have a chronic condition, such as asthma, allergies or acid reflux. A lingering cough is also a sign of emphysema and lung cancer, so it’s always best to see your doctor for evaluation.

Q: What is a productive cough?

This means you are coughing up (i.e., producing) mucus. A productive cough could mean you have a cold, pneumonia, allergies or bronchitis.

Q: What is a dry, hacking cough?

This means you are not producing mucus. It could be a sign of allergies or acid reflux.

Q: Is whooping cough making a comeback?

Unfortunately, whooping cough, also known as pertussis, has been on the rise. The disease was nearly eradicated through childhood vaccinations, but because some children do not receive their recommended vaccinations, this highly contagious disease is making a comeback. Symptoms of whooping cough include runny nose, sneezing and a dry cough that progresses into a high-pitched “whooping” noise.

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